Worthing Dog Owner Sentenced For Keeping Illegal XL Bully

A dog owner has been sentenced after he was found to be in possession of an XL Bully type dog in breach of new legislation.

Patrick McKeown kept the dog at an address in central Worthing.

Police contacted him in relation to another matter when the 40-year-old disclosed that he had an XL Bully breed at his address.

New legislation for owners of XL Bully dogs came into effect on February 1, but it was found that McKeown had not applied for an exemption for his pet, had not had the dog neutered, and had not obtained third party insurance.

It was reported that the dog was also seen loose in the back yard of the property.

McKeown warned officers his dog would attack anyone who approached it, however, police obtained a warrant to gain entry into the property and the dog was seized.

At Worthing Magistrates’ Court on March 12, McKeown, formerly a builder of Church Road, Tarring, admitted one count of possessing or having of a fighting dog, contrary to the Dangerous Dogs Act.

The court imposed a one-year community order, requiring him to complete 100 hours of unpaid work.

He was ordered to pay £85 costs and a £114 surcharge.

The court also imposed an order for the destruction of the dog, pending an appeal.

Chief Inspector Simon Starns, who is the force lead for responding to dangerous dogs, said:

“This was one of the first cases of its type to be prosecuted in Sussex.

“It demonstrates to the public that owners have a responsibility to ensure that they comply with the new laws which are now in force.

“We continue to work closely with partners to ensure dogs are kept safe through responsible ownership and to reduce the risk to the public.

“We continue to ask all dog owners to comply with Government guidance on the ownership of the XL Bully breed of dog.

“This includes ensuring that all XL Bully breed dogs are muzzled and kept on a lead held by someone aged over 16 when in public places.”