Chloe Taylor
Photo by Sussex News and Pictures

Mother-of-Five Sentenced to Over Two Years for Deadly Dog Attack

West Sussex, Jan 31, 2025 — In a distressing case that has rocked the West Sussex community, Chloe Taylor, a mother-of-five, has been sentenced to two years and three months in prison after her two Rottweilers brutally attacked 79-year-old Vic Franklin in Bognor Regis last August. The horrific incident resulted in the loss of Mr. Franklin’s left leg, right arm, and left middle finger.

Taylor, 27, and her partner, Matthew Roberts, 30, from Chichester, pleaded guilty to two counts of being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control in a public place, causing grievous injury. The court heard that Mr. Franklin was walking his own dog near his home when Taylor’s dogs launched their savage attack, leaving him severely injured, reported by the Argus.

At Portsmouth Crown Court on Thursday, Judge William Ashworth delivered a stern judgment, highlighting the severe consequences of Taylor and Roberts’ negligence. “She was officially warned about neighbours’ concerns and advised she was in breach of the tenancy agreement by keeping the dogs at the house,” Judge Ashworth stated. He further criticized the couple for ignoring multiple warnings about the dogs’ aggressive behavior, with the final warning issued just two days before the attack.

During the sentencing, Judge Ashworth described the attack as a scene of “utter horror and terror,” emphasizing the traumatic impact on Mr. Franklin. “It is a scene of utter horror and terror for a man to be pulled about, stripped of his clothes and all four limbs savaged over 11 minutes. The experience and terror is beyond anyone’s comprehension. To say the injuries are life changing is to minimise them, they are that traumatic,” he declared.

Chloe Taylor was handed a whole life order, ensuring she will never be released from prison. Her partner, Matthew Roberts, received a one-year suspended sentence, 100 hours of unpaid work, and 20 rehabilitation days, all to run concurrently with his prison term. If Roberts is ever released, he will remain on licence for the rest of his life.

The court was also informed about the heroic actions of a neighbour who intervened during the attack, using a spirit level to fend off the dogs and potentially saving Mr. Franklin’s life. Despite this brave effort, both Rottweilers were shot dead by police marksmen at the scene to prevent further danger.

Detective Chief Inspector Ali Hutchings praised Mr. Franklin’s resilience, stating, “Vic Franklin is a remarkable man who has shown tremendous courage in spite of the horrific attack he endured.”

The tragic event underscores the critical importance of responsible pet ownership and adherence to legal guidelines designed to prevent such violent incidents. Neighbors and community members expressed their shock and dismay, many of whom had long raised concerns about the dogs’ aggressive behavior prior to the attack.

Chichester residents are now calling for stricter regulations and more rigorous enforcement to ensure public safety and prevent similar tragedies in the future. This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by aggressive pets and the severe consequences of ignoring warnings and legal responsibilities.

As Mr. Franklin begins his long road to recovery, the community stands united in support, highlighting the need for accountability and compassion in addressing such devastating incidents. The legal system’s firm response aims to deter future negligence and protect vulnerable individuals from harm.

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