Yorkshire father admits dangerous dog charge over death of his 12-day-old son

By Grace Hammond
Published 23rd Dec 2021, 14:01 BST
Updated 23rd Dec 2021, 14:34 BST
A father whose newborn son was killed by the family pet has admitted being the owner of a dangerously out-of-control dog.

Elon Ellis-Joynes was 12 days old when he was attacked by a Chow-Chow-cross at his home in Doncaster on September 13 2020.

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Elon’s parents, Abigail Ellis, 28, and Steven Joynes, 36, of Welfare Road, Woodlands, Doncaster, were both charged following the incident.

On December 23, Joynes pleaded guilty at Sheffield Crown Court to a charge of being the owner of a dog which caused death when dangerously out of control.

Abigail Ellis, 28, and Stephen Joynes, 36Abigail Ellis, 28, and Stephen Joynes, 36
Abigail Ellis, 28, and Stephen Joynes, 36
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Ellis, who also appeared in court, denied the same charge at a previous hearing and is due to go on trial on July 11.

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Judge Jeremy Richardson QC said another hearing will take place on February 11 when further decisions about the case will be made.

Judge Richardson bailed both defendants but told Joynes: “All sentencing options, including being sent to prison, remain open. The mere fact you’re on bail reveals nothing.”