Former West Ham footballer fined after dog attack
The XL bullies, chased and attacked a golden retriever
Former West Ham footballer Said Benrahma's been fined more than £12000 for owning 'dangerously out of control dogs'.
The 30 year-old Algerian admitted two counts after his XL bullies escaped from his home and chased and attacked a golden retriever in Hornchurch, east London in 2023.
The animal needed vet treatment, while its owner suffered grazes to his arms and legs after grappling with Benrahma's dogs on the ground, Willesden Magistrates' Court heard.
Benrahma said the dogs escaped from a side gate which had been left open by someone working for him at the time.
He appeared at court on Thursday by video link from a car in Saudi Arabia, where he now plays for Saudi Pro League side Neom.
The Algeria winger joined West Ham from Brentford in October 2020 and scored 24 goals in 155 games for the club.
District Judge Matt Jabbitt said the incident must have been "very distressing" for the golden retriever's owner, fined Benrahma £5,000 for each of the attacks and ordered him to pay £2,500 compensation to Mr Rehbin plus £495 kennel costs.
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