Harris Vinten was due to be sentenced today for having a dog that was dangerously out of control, but the hearing was delayed as the court heard more information was needed before a sentence could be passed
The owner of a pit bull which savaged a three-year-old girl has appeared in court.
Harris Vinten, 32, was due to be sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court today, September 20, after pleading guilty to having a dog dangerously out of control. However, the hearing was delayed as the court heard more information was needed before a sentence could be passed.
The incident, which left the toddler with grave injuries, happened at Newtown Gardens, near Market Tavern in Kirkby, shortly after 3.15pm on Saturday, September 2, last year. Merseyside Police later identified the canine as a pit bull terrier – a breed outlawed in Britain.
Ian Criddle, prosecuting, said it is unknown if Vinten acquired the aggressive animal a day prior to the brutal event. Where and from whom Vinten bought the dog also remains a mystery.
Criddle pointed out there had been zero communication with the injured youngster’s family since May 2024, but asserted efforts would be redoubled to make contact, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Postponing proceedings to October 10, Judge Ian Harris declared: “There will come a stage where the defendant will have to be sentenced on the information the prosecution has. Mr Vinten will want to know exactly what will happen to him. But at the moment I cannot sentence him because I don’t have sufficient information.”
Vinten, from Thompson Avenue in Ormskirk, turned up in the dock sporting a grey and black tee along with blue denim. Following his adjournment, he queried the judge: “My mum’s written a letter. Can I pass you it?” The judge instructed him to give the letter to his barrister instead.
