Couple jailed after dangerous dog attacks child

A couple's Japanese Akita attacked a child and left them with a large wound to the face, a court has heard.

Kayleigh Godbert, 39, and Thomas Moir, 38, itted being in charge of a dangerously out of control dog called Nuqe which bit the youngster at least six times.

Judge Simon Mills said the child was "lucky" to be alive and described one laceration as "absolutely awful".

The couple, who appeared at Mold Crown Court in Flintshire, were jailed for 18 months and banned from keeping a dog for seven years.

According to the prosecution, the dog had bitten someone previously.

Judge Mills told the couple the injuries were "frightening" and said the attack was down to their "utter negligence".

He added an image of the child's face before surgery was "breath-taking".

"This incident should, and could, have been foreseen," Judge Mills said.

Det Con James Grimwood of North Wales Police described the event as a "horrific incident" which has "tragically resulted in serious and lasting injuries to a vulnerable child".

He added: "Both Moir and Godbert have shown little remorse throughout this investigation despite the lifelong consequences their actions have had on a young child.

"The court outcome reflects the seriousness of this incident, and I hope that this sends a message to any dog owners to ensure that they do not leave their dogs alone with children."

Det Con Grimwood said he urged anyone with information or concerns around a dangerous dog to report it to North Wales Police.