An XL Bully that had previously been confiscated by authorities for biting its owner left an eight-month-old infant in a coma. Jordan Williams, 19, was apprehended following an incident where his dog, Hunter, attacked little Arabella Williams in a residence in Siskin Close, Hawkinge, Kent, on December 11 of the prior year. The baby suffered severe injuries and was airlifted to King’s College Hospital in southeast London, where she was placed in a medically induced coma in the intensive care unit. After a three-week hospital stay, she fortunately did not require surgical intervention.
Police had seized Hunter, who was 18 months old at the time of the attack, and he was subsequently euthanized by a veterinarian. It was disclosed that Hunter had been reported to the authorities in November 2023 for biting his owner and causing minor harm.
Kent Police indicated that the dog’s owner had been requested to surrender Hunter for euthanasia voluntarily but had refused. Although there were no legal grounds to detain the dog, the owner was advised to comply with a police order that included stringent conditions for securing and supervising the dog.
The second incident, involving the child, prompted a significant emergency response, with approximately nine patrol cars and multiple law enforcement and forensic personnel present at the scene.
According to a family member interviewed by Kent Online, the attack was uncharacteristic behavior for Hunter, who was typically described as affectionate. The family member recalled that Hunter and the baby had a good relationship, often sharing a travel cot where Hunter would interact gently with the infant.
Williams, who was 18 at the time of the incident, was interrogated by the authorities and subsequently charged in August for being the owner of a dangerously out-of-control dog. He pleaded guilty to the offense at Canterbury Crown Court on October 13.
Additionally, Pamela Williams, 77, faced charges for being responsible for a dog that was deemed dangerously out of control. She pleaded not guilty and is scheduled for trial in the following September, with a request to dismiss her charge to be considered in January. Jordan Williams’ sentencing will be postponed until after the resolution of Pamela Williams’ case.
Kent Police confirmed the charges against Jordan Williams and Pamela Williams, detailing the offenses related to the incident on December 11, 2024.
Under Section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, it is unlawful for a dog to exhibit dangerous behavior in public or private spaces. Both the owner and the person in charge of the dog during such incidents are liable for the offense.
The initial event occurred prior to the implementation of new regulations prohibiting the ownership, sale, breeding, or transfer of XL bullies, which took effect in February of the preceding year. Hunter was reportedly registered under this legislation.
The Mirror reached out to Kent Police for additional statements on the matter.
