Ashley Warren has been jailed in a landmark case after his XL Bulldog fatally attacked 68-year-old Esther Martin in Jaywick. The brutal attack took place just days after new UK laws banned ownership of XL Bullies.
Fatal Attack Sparks First Conviction Under New Dog Laws
Warren, 41, was convicted in February 2024 following a thorough investigation by Essex Police. Esther was mauled to death by Warren’s dog, Bear and another XL Bully while trying to separate their fighting puppies.
Police revealed Esther had health and mobility issues and lacked experience caring for the dogs alone. Warren had left her in charge of his ten dogs while he travelled to London, breaching dangerous dog laws requiring responsible supervision.
Jury Finds Warren Guilty of Illegal Ownership and Neglect
Detectives proved Bear was large and hard to control, and Warren was struggling to manage so many dogs at his Hillman Avenue home. They also confirmed Warren did not have the necessary exemption certificates to own XL Bullies legally.
The jury agreed Esther was not capable of safely looking after the animals, and Warren was held responsible for the tragedy.
Heavy Sentence and Lifetime Dog Ban for Warren
On Tuesday, 31 March, Warren from Garfield Road, Addleston, was sentenced to 10 years and three months in prison. He was also banned from owning dogs for life, marking a strong message in this first-of-its-kind UK case.
Essex Police: “Our meticulous investigation has led to a landmark conviction under new legislation banning XL Bully ownership.”
