Tragedy in Derby: A Man Jailed After His Dog Kills His Brother
In a heart-wrenching case that has shocked the community of Derby, Gary Stevens, 55, has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison after admitting to being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog that tragically killed his younger brother, Wayne Stevens, 51. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of April 22, 2023, has raised serious questions about dog ownership responsibilities and the consequences of neglecting to control aggressive animals.
The Incident
The fateful night began with a gathering at the Stevens’ home on Cameron Road, where both brothers had been drinking vodka. As the night progressed, the atmosphere turned deadly when the family’s cane corso cross, a large and powerful breed, attacked Wayne. Despite Gary’s awareness of the dog’s aggressive tendencies—having previously bitten both people and other dogs—he failed to take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
Witnesses and court testimonies revealed that the dog, weighing approximately 50kg (112lbs), had a history of aggression. Gary had previously downplayed the dog’s behavior, referring to its bites as mere "nips." However, the court heard that the animal had a pattern of targeting the face and neck during attacks, a fact that Gary could not ignore.
Emergency Response and Aftermath
When emergency services arrived at the scene, they were met with chaos. Gary, reportedly intoxicated, was abusive towards the police and paramedics, complicating their efforts to control the situation. In a moment of desperation, he misled an emergency operator by claiming the dog was a poodle, which only added to the confusion when responders encountered the "incredibly heavy" cane corso cross.
As the situation escalated, the dog broke free and ran into the street, prompting police to take drastic measures. Despite multiple attempts to subdue the animal with tasers, it was ultimately shot dead at the scene. Tragically, Wayne was found dead at the foot of a stairway, having suffered "multiple, massive and horrific" injuries.
The Court Proceedings
During the sentencing at Derby Crown Court, Judge Shaun Smith KC expressed his dismay at Gary’s actions and the circumstances surrounding his brother’s death. The judge highlighted Gary’s clear knowledge of the dangers posed by the dog and the lack of control exacerbated by his alcohol consumption. He noted that Gary’s behavior during the emergency response was obstructive and mocking, further complicating the efforts of the emergency workers.
Gary’s defense attorney, Tony Stanford, described the incident as "extremely upsetting" for Gary, who had attempted to save his brother during the attack. However, the court found that Gary’s negligence and failure to manage the aggressive dog were significant factors leading to the tragic outcome.
Sentencing and Consequences
In addition to his prison sentence, Gary Stevens has been banned from owning dogs for life. The court was informed that the cane corso cross was a mix with a bull terrier, and it had been given to Gary by a mother-of-five who felt overwhelmed and unable to care for the animal. This raises further questions about responsible dog ownership and the importance of ensuring that pets are placed in suitable environments.
Community Reactions
The incident has left the Derby community in shock, prompting discussions about the responsibilities of dog owners and the need for stricter regulations regarding dangerous breeds. Many are calling for increased awareness and education on dog behavior, as well as better support systems for individuals who may struggle with pet ownership.
As the Stevens family grapples with this unimaginable loss, the case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting the responsibilities that come with owning a powerful and potentially dangerous dog. The tragedy underscores the importance of vigilance, control, and accountability in ensuring the safety of both pets and people.