A pensioner has recalled the moment he was mauled by two out-of-control Rottweilers in an attack which cost him his leg and arm.
Vic Franklin sustained life-changing injuries after the Rottweilers escaped from a property and attacked him as he walked his dog in Bognor on 18 August 2023.
Yesterday, one of the dogs’ owners was jailed, and the other given a suspended prison sentence.
Mr Franklin spent several months in hospital, where he underwent major operations including amputations to his left leg, right arm and left hand.
But in spite of the significant physical and mental challenges, he still manages to look on the bright side of life.
He said: “I’ve always got a smile on my face. I get down at times, but then I think to myself ‘no, I’m not having this’. At times I get sentimental and I do have a little bit of a tear, but I pull myself out of it and carry on.”
After receiving a number of 999 calls from concerned members of public, specialist firearms officers were swiftly deployed to the scene in Lewes Close and granted authority to bring the dogs safely under control. Firearms were discharged and both dogs were confirmed deceased.
Vic, who is 79, has heaped praise on the emergency services, hospital staff, and his family and friends who continue to support him. And he was especially thankful to local resident Jim Jones, who happened to witness the incident and bravely intervened to prevent the dogs from attacking him further.
Matthew Roberts, 30, and Chloe Taylor, 27, from Chichester, were both summoned to court to answer charges of being the owner or person in charge of a dog dangerously out of control and causing injury.
They pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing, and appeared before Portsmouth Crown Court for sentencing on Thursday 30 January.
Taylor was sentenced to 27 months’ imprisonment; Roberts was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work.
Both defendants were made subject to a banning order, which prohibits them from owning a dog for 10 years.
Mr Jones was put forward for a Sheriffs award, recognising his life-saving actions.
Investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Ali Hutchings, said: “Vic Franklin is a remarkable man who has shown tremendous courage in spite of the horrific attack he endured. The level of spirit and determination he has shown throughout is nothing short of inspirational, and we continue to wish him well.
“Nobody should have to expect to defend themselves when they go out to walk their dog close to their home. And while the vast majority of dog owners are responsible, this case demonstrates the severe consequences of those who are not.
“I am glad the two defendants took full responsibility for their actions – pleading guilty at an earlier hearing – and I hope this result brings some closure to Vic and his family.”
