Two sentenced following dog attack in Netherton

We can confirm the sentencing of a mother and son to 10 months in prison, suspended for 18 months, following a dog attack in Netherton last year.
 
Rachel Walshe, 69, of Grosvenor Close, in Netherton, was sentenced after pleading guilty to Being the owner/person in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury resulting in death. She was issued with an indefinite Dog Disqualification Order.
Her son Brian Walshe, 41, of The Marian Way, Netherton, was sentenced after also pleading guilty to Being the owner/person in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury resulting in death. Both were sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court today, Thursday 23 May. He was issued with a five-year Dog Disqualification Order.
 
At around 5.45pm on Friday 18 August 2023, we received reports that Marie Stevens, 40, had been bitten to the arms and legs by two Rottweiler dogs on Park Lane West.
 
Police officers gave Ms Stevens first aid until an ambulance arrived and took her to hospital, where she was treated and later discharged.
 
On Sunday 3 September, police were called by the North West Ambulance Service to Ms Stevens’ home on Holden Road, in Brighton-le-Sands, to a report she had collapsed and sadly died.
 
A post mortem determined the primary cause of death was a pulmonary embolism. Destruction orders were issued for both dogs. The defendents will each pay kennel fees of £3892.
 
Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Constable Peter Williams said: “This was a tragic case in which Marie Stevens was attacked by two dangerous dogs, neither of which was in the control of Brian or Rachel Walshe. Their recklessness led to Marie suffering from serious injuries and led, ultimately, to her death. Marie’s family and friends have been left devastated by this avoidable tragedy.
 
“In the immediate aftermath of the incident, Brian Walshe took both dogs from the scene and was later stopped and arrested by patrols on Marine Drive. This callous behaviour, added to the matter coming to trial, has undoubtedly added to the suffering of Marie’s family, who have shown great strength and dignity throughout. 
 
“We can only hope that this case gives a stark warning to dog owners about keeping animals under control in public places. We will act on all information provided on suspected irresponsible dog ownership. Failing to keep your dog under control can lead to the worst outcome imaginable.”
 
Call 999 if a dog is posing an immediate threat to the safety of the public, or pass other information via @Merpol CC or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. 
 
You can also report other concerns about dogs via your local authority.