A dog owner whose XL bullies attacked and killed a man has pleaded guilty to having dogs dangerously out of control.
Ian Price, 52, was attacked by two dogs outside a property in Stonnall, Staffordshire on 14 September 2023, and died later in hospital.
Just hours later, then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the XL bully breed would be banned in England and Wales.
At Stafford Crown Court, James Harrison Trimble-Pettitt, 32, admitted two counts of being the owner of a dog dangerously out of control and he is due to be sentenced on 5 January.
A number of people attempted to help Mr Price during the attack by trying to get the dogs off him, Staffordshire Police said.
One of the dogs died during the incident, the force confirmed, while the other was given a lethal injection by a vet inside the owner’s flat.
In a statement following Trimble-Pettitt’s guilty plea, Mr Price’s family thanked members of the public who tried to help, the emergency services and hospital staff.
“Our family has been overwhelmed by the love and support shown to us since that dreadful day and we thank you all for your kind words and actions,” they said.
“Ian was full of life and loved by many. Anyone who knew him will remember his enthusiasm and passion for life but, above all, his kind and generous spirit.”
