LEON WILKS AND THE DEADLY DOG ATTACK IN SNAPE WOOD NEAR BULWELL, NOTTINGHAM

Leon C Wilks, born around 1981 and residing at Dyce Close, Snape Wood, Bulwell, Nottingham NG6 7GD, was involved in a tragic incident that resulted in the death of a small dog and subsequent legal action. On March 3, 2023, Wilks's three dogs, which included two Staffordshire crossbreeds and an XL Bully, were off their leashes in the Snape Wood Nature Reserve, a popular outdoor area near Bulwell. During this walk, the dogs encountered a smaller dog, a cocker spaniel, which was being walked by its owner.

Without warning, the three dogs launched a vicious attack on the cocker spaniel. The attack was so severe that the injured pet had to be euthanized due to the catastrophic injuries inflicted. Witnesses and the owner of the cocker spaniel were left deeply distressed by the incident, which highlighted the dangers posed by uncontrolled and aggressive dogs in public spaces.

Following a thorough investigation, authorities identified Wilks as the owner of the three dogs involved in the attack. In response, all three animals were seized by animal control officers to prevent further incidents. Wilks appeared before Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on September 15, 2023, where he pleaded guilty to three counts of being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog.

During the court proceedings, a contingent destruction order was imposed on each of the three dogs. This order mandates that unless Wilks complies with strict conditions, at least one of the dogs will face euthanasia. The court also ordered that all three dogs must wear muzzles when outside and be kept on a lead held by someone over the age of 16 during walks. Any breach of these conditions will result in the dogs being seized and put down.

PC Conor Bullivant expressed his sentiments regarding the incident, stating, “This was a deeply distressing incident that left a dog with horrible injuries and resulted in its owners having to make the difficult decision to put their beloved pet to sleep to end its suffering. We hope that the order issued by the court helps provide the community with some reassurance going forward and sends out a strong reminder to all dog owners of their responsibilities to ensure the safety of other people and their animals.”

In addition to the destruction order, Wilks was ordered to pay £900 in compensation and fines as part of the sentencing. The case underscores the importance of responsible dog ownership, especially in public areas like Snape Wood, where families and pet owners frequently visit. The community remains hopeful that such measures will prevent future tragedies and promote safer interactions between dogs and the public.