Former West Ham United player Said Benrahma has been fined £12,995 under the Dangerous Dogs Act after his two XL bully dogs attacked a golden retriever. The distressing incident occurred when the dogs escaped from Benrahma's Hornchurch home through a gate inadvertently left open by a contractor.

The attack, which took place in July 2023, resulted in injuries to both the retriever and its owner, Luke Rehbin, who sustained grazes and bruising while trying to protect his pet. Willesden Magistrates’ Court heard the case, where Benrahma, now with Neom FC in Saudi Arabia, appeared via video link expressing remorse through his legal representative.

District Judge Matt Jabbitt imposed a fine of £5,000 for each dog and additionally ordered Benrahma to pay £2,500 in compensation to the victim and £495 for kennel costs. The judge acknowledged the accidental nature of the escape but emphasized the owner's responsibility to secure potentially dangerous pets.

This case comes amidst increased scrutiny of celebrity dog ownership and coincides with stricter regulations in the UK following the formal prohibition of XL bullies in February 2024. These dogs must now be neutered, muzzled in public, and covered by liability insurance, with heavy penalties for non-compliance.

Benrahma's penalty, although significant, is seen by some as lenient, sparking debate online about the adequacy of the fines and the broader issues of breed-specific legislation and public safety. Legal experts suggest that such incidents highlight the challenges in balancing animal control with rights and responsibilities, particularly for high-profile individuals.

The ruling also potentially impacts Benrahma's career, affecting work permits, sponsorships, and international contracts due to the legal implications of his conviction. As dangerous-dog legislation evolves, this case serves as a potent reminder of the severe consequences of failing to control pets, intended or not.