A woman whose XL Bully dog was shot dead by police has been sentenced after leading a "campaign of abuse" against officers on social media.
Court Hears Details of Shooting and Aftermath
Sophie Zaherali, 31, was in her Sheffield home on December 7, 2024, tending to her child when her dog, named Ghost, bolted out of a faulty door onto Dunella Street. Two South Yorkshire Police officers arrived, and one, referred to as Officer A35, fired three shots, killing the animal.
The force stated the decision was made "to end and mitigate the risk it posed to the public." In her grief, Zaherali took to social media, branding the officers "murderers" and instigating what the court described as a campaign of online abuse.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Zaherali was charged with possessing a dangerous dog and sending an offensive communication via a public network. At Sheffield Magistrates' Court in October, she was found guilty on both counts.
She had initially pleaded not guilty to being the owner of a dog dangerously out of control. However, the judge ruled that, under the legal definition of the Dangerous Dogs Act, Ghost was considered a dangerous dog.
During sentencing, the judge acknowledged the profound impact on Zaherali's family, noting Ghost had been a support dog for her son who has autism and epilepsy. The judge described the dog's escape as stemming from a "unique set of circumstances" and Zaherali's culpability as the "lowest level."
The court heard Zaherali had been a responsible owner, having followed all correct steps for owning an XL Bully, including muzzling, neutering, and microchipping.
Community Order and Warning of 'Only the Beginning'
Zaherali was fined £614 and given a 24-month community order, requiring her to complete 40 sessions with women's services. The judge said her actions, born of grief, were "out of character" but warned of the risks when social media posts escalate.
Speaking outside court, Zaherali said she was "happy" the court acknowledged Ghost was "deemed dangerous on a technicality" and believed the ruling fair. However, she warned that the legal outcome was "only the beginning" in her fight for Ghost.
Firearms Inspector Steve Usher commented: "Dogs are the responsibility of their owners... Everyone's safety will always be our priority." A South Yorkshire Police spokesperson reiterated that the decision to shoot a dog is never taken lightly.
