Brighton Woman Banned from Owning Dogs for Five Years After Vicious Attack.

Elle Compton (pictured) has been banned from owning dogs for five years after her American Pitbull-type dog, Molly, launched a vicious attack on a passer-by in central Brighton. The court also ordered that the dog be destroyed. The unprovoked attack happened in April 2024, near Compton’s home in the city. Victim Chris Delacy suffered serious […]

Elle Compton (pictured) has been banned from owning dogs for five years after her American Pitbull-type dog, Molly, launched a vicious attack on a passer-by in central Brighton. The court also ordered that the dog be destroyed.

The unprovoked attack happened in April 2024, near Compton’s home in the city. Victim Chris Delacy suffered serious injuries after Molly lunged at him, biting his wrist and coming within inches of his face before being restrained.

During an earlier hearing in May 2025, Brighton Magistrates’ Court heard that Compton had already been served with a dog control order over previous concerns about Molly’s behaviour. Despite this, the dog was unmuzzled in public on the day of the attack. Compton claimed the dog had slipped its muzzle, but the court found her guilty of being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog that caused injury.

At her sentencing on Thursday 11 July, magistrates issued Compton with a five-year ban on owning dogs and confirmed that Molly is to be humanely destroyed.

In addition to the destruction and ownership bans, Compton was also ordered to pay £12,470.04 in costs to cover Molly’s kennelling fees since the incident over a year ago. She was given a 12-month conditional discharge, ordered to pay £200 in kennelling fees, and was also required to pay court costs.

Elle Compton was seen leaving court in tears after the hearing.

Sussex Police reminded dog owners of their responsibilities, stating:

“Failing to keep a dog under control in public has legal consequences. We hope this case serves as a clear warning to other owners.”