Man in court over death of XL bully attack victim

Ian Price died in September after being attacked by the two dogs

A man has appeared in court in connection with the death of a 52-year-old man who was attacked by two XL bully dogs near his home.

Ian Price died in hospital after being seriously injured in Main Street, Stonnall, Staffordshire, at about 15:15 BST on 14 September 2023.

James Trimble-Pettit, 31, appeared at Cannock Magistrates' Court on Thursday charged with two counts of being the owner of a dog dangerously out of control where death is caused.

He said he would give no indication of a plea to the two charges he faced.

The court heard the two dogs involved were a champagne-coloured female XL bully called Via and a white XL bully male named Ares.

One of the dogs died after being restrained and the other died after being injected by a vet.

Mr Trimble-Pettit did not give an indication in court of how he would plead to the two charges he faced

Appearing in court in a black suit and tie and clasping his hands in front of him, Mr Trimble-Pettit, of Tye Road, Fradley, Lichfield, spoke only to confirm his name and address and said he would give no indication of his pleas.

District judge Ian Barnes, who appeared at the court via video link, said the offences were too serious for him to be able to deal with.

He released Mr Trimble-Pettit on the same bail conditions imposed by Staffordshire Police - that he must live and sleep at his address in Tye Road, not enter Stonnall and not be in the company of any dog.

The public gallery in the courtroom was filled with Mr Price's friends and family.

Mr Trimble-Pettit, who left the court quickly after the 10-minute hearing, is next due to appear at Stafford Crown Court on 7 October.