A woman who was in charge of a dangerously out-of-control XL bully dog when it killed her teenage cousin has received a suspended prison sentence. Kelcie Reed, 24, was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months, after Morgan Dorsett, 19, died from injuries sustained in an attack by the dog named Prince.
The fatal incident occurred on February 26, 2025, inside a flat in Cobhorn Drive, Withywood, Bristol. Ms. Dorsett, who was from Shrewsbury, Shropshire, suffered extensive injuries including numerous puncture wounds, fractures, and bruising, Bristol Crown Court heard. The XL bully was legally owned and had a certificate of exemption, requiring it to be muzzled and on a lead in public, though no restrictions were in place for its confinement within the home.
Reed had previously pleaded guilty to being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control, causing injury resulting in death. Judge Anna Richardson imposed a suspended sentence that includes a nine-month mental health treatment requirement. The judge stated that if Reed fails to attend appointments or complete the treatment over the next 18 months, she will serve the prison sentence.
The court heard that Ms. Dorsett had been at Reed's home for four days prior to the attack and had no prior issues with the dog. The incident reportedly began when Ms. Dorsett took cocaine, suffered a seizure, and started screaming, which triggered the dog's attack. Reed sustained injuries to her arms while attempting to protect her cousin and called emergency services once the dog was secured. Police arrived on the scene, and Prince was sedated and subsequently euthanized.
During the sentencing, victim impact statements were read by Morgan Dorsett's family. Her sister, Caelia Dorsett, described losing her "best friend" and the profound impact on their large family. Morgan's mother, Marie Smith, spoke of her daughter's creativity and eagerness to start her new life in Bristol.
Reed's defense team described the attack as a sudden, unexpected event outside of Reed's control, noting that Morgan's cocaine use may have contributed to her out-of-character behavior that provoked the dog. They argued that the incident could not have been foreseen and that no other safety measures could have been taken. The judge acknowledged six mitigating factors, including Reed's status as a young mother, her good character references, and her evident remorse, in concluding that a custodial sentence was not appropriate.