Owner of XL bully dogs that mauled woman to death charged
The owner of two XL bully dogs has been charged after an elderly woman was mauled to death.
Ashley Warren, 40, had been charged over the death of Esther Martin, who was killed by two XL bullies in Essex in February, Essex Police said.
An Essex Police spokesman said: “A man has been charged as part of our investigation into the death of Esther Martin in Jaywick.
“Esther, 68, was fatally injured after being attacked by two dogs in Hillman Avenue on the afternoon of Feb 3.
“Both dogs were later confirmed to be XL bullies.
“A man was arrested in connection with our investigation later that day.”
Ms Martin, who was staying at the address in Hillman Avenue but lived in Woodford Green in east London, was found along with “two large dogs”, an inquest was told as proceedings were opened then suspended pending the outcome of the police investigation.
Her cause of death was recorded as “dog bite wounds to the upper right limb”.
Two dogs were destroyed at the scene.
Ch Supt Stuart Weaver said: “I know there has been a huge amount of speculation about the breed and type of dog involved here, but it was really important we got that information right and established the facts.
“We owe it to Esther and her family to ensure we are thorough, professional and, above all, fair.
“XL bully is not a breed of dog in itself, but a sub-category of the American bully and identifying categories of a breed can be a complex process.
“It requires a police-trained dog expert to examine the physical features of the dog against specific measurements, in line with the guidelines published by the Government.
“A forensic post-mortem was also carried out by a veterinary scientist and through this combination it was confirmed that the dogs were XL bullies.
“A team of experienced detectives are continuing their investigation into Esther’s death and continue to make good progress. They are committed to getting the answers her family need about what happened and why.
“Specially trained family liaison officers are also continuing to support them.”
Ch Supt Weaver added: “I again want to express our thanks to the members of the public who bravely tried to save Esther before our officers arrived on scene.
“What you did was hugely courageous and a reflection of the values of the community of Jaywick.
“I also want to again praise the unflinching bravery and professionalism of the officers who attended and whose actions ensured the community was safe.”
Mr Warren is due to appear before Colchester magistrates’court on Aug 22.