More Than 2,300 Dangerous Dog Offences Recorded By Sussex Police Since 2022 - With Over 300 Already This Year

A new investigation has revealed an increase in dangerously out-of-control dog incidents across Sussex, with the figure now the highest it has been in three years.

Fresh data obtained by Legal Expert shows a year-on-year increase in the number of offences where a person in charge has allowed a dog to be dangerously out-of-control in a public place and has caused harm. 

In 2023, Sussex Police recorded 713 offences.

That was a 21% increase compared with 591 crimes logged in 2022.

Last year, the number of cases rose again. A total of 725 offences recorded by the force involved an out-of-control dog causing an injury.

What’s more, there were already 333 incidents up until the end of May this year. That works out at more than two people being hurt by uncontrolled dogs every day on average.

Overall, the police force has recorded 2,362 cases since the start of 2022.

Legal Expert solicitor Patrick Mallon said:

“The increase in dog attacks is extremely concerning.

“Most of the time, our four-legged friends bring us comfort and joy but in these incidents where a dog has become dangerously out-of-control and has caused injury, it is important that victims know there is support available to them.”

In January 2024, the Government implemented new rules about XL Bully dogs following a number of attacks and incidents across the UK. 

It is now a legal requirement for all XL Bully dogs within the UK to be kept on a lead and muzzled out in public, and owners must have a certificate of exemption.

Mallon added:

“If a dog attack has caused you injury, you can potentially claim compensation for your injuries and other related losses.

"This includes medical expenses, lost earnings, and the psychological impact of the attack.”