Rapper Sentenced to 10 Years After XL Bully Kills Grandmother

An aspiring rapper has been jailed after two XL bully dogs fatally attacked an elderly woman in Essex. Ashley Warren, 41, was sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court following the fatal assault on 3 February 2024.

The attack and victim

The victim was identified as 68-year-old Esther Martin of Jaywick. She suffered at least 60 mostly dog-related injuries before she died.

Jurors heard she had limited mobility after a hip replacement and stood 5ft 3in. A child was in the property during the attack.

Dogs and circumstances

The two adult dogs, named Beauty and Bear, weighed about 37kg and 49kg. Warren had asked Ms Martin to care for them and eight puppies while he went to London to film a music video.

Prosecutors said the animals had not been walked for four weeks. Footage captured the dogs barking, and the screams of the victim and a child.

How the attack unfolded

Jury evidence stated one adult dog knocked Ms Martin over. She hit her head on a counter before falling to the floor.

The ferocity of the attack included a fatal bite through her arm that completely fractured the bone.

Trial, verdict and sentence

Warren was found guilty of owning or being in charge of the two XL bully dogs that killed a grandmother. He also pleaded guilty to two charges of owning a dangerous dog.

The court handed Warren a prison term of 10 years and three months. He received a consecutive three-month sentence for possession of a bladed article.

Family impact and statements

Ms Martin’s daughter, Sonia, read a victim statement in court. She described how her family’s lives were shattered and how she struggles to sleep.

Her son, Paul, said he felt the loss would affect him for the rest of his life. He called the death avoidable and said it had robbed the family of a caring relative.

Judge’s remarks and legal context

Mr Justice Johnson noted the defendants were large and powerful dogs even for the XL bully breed. He highlighted Ms Martin’s vulnerability due to her age and health.

This was the first prosecution under new rules on XL bully ownership introduced in February 2024. The judge recorded that Warren showed no remorse and maintained he was not responsible.

Filmogaz.com will continue to report on developments related to the case and its wider legal implications.