Man pleads guilty following death of Ian Price

A man has pleaded guilty following the death of Ian Price, who was attacked by two XL bully dogs in Stonnall.

Yesterday, on the second day of a trial of issue (Tuesday 14 October), James Harrison Trimble-Pettitt, 32, of Fradley, near Lichfield, pleaded guilty to two counts of being the owner of a dog which when dangerously out of control caused the death of Ian Price at Stafford Crown Court.

Trimble-Pettitt pleaded guilty to the charges in January 2025 but on a basis that the dogs escape was due to a momentary lapse in concentration. This basis was not accepted by the Crown and a trial of issue was scheduled.

Just before 3.15pm on 14 September 2023, two XL bullies attacked 52-year-old Ian Price on Main Street, Stonnall. A number of people helped to try and get the dogs off Ian.

Shortly after, officers attended the scene. Ian was taken to hospital in a critical condition and tragically died a short time later. One dog died during the incident and the other dog was given a lethal injection by a vet inside the owner’s flat.
Trimble-Pettitt was arrested the same day.

Ian’s family have issued the following statement: “To every member of the public who tried to help Ian on that fateful day, we salute you and thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You are heroes.

“To the emergency services who attended on that day, and to the staff at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital who tried so desperately to save Ian, thank you.

“To the officers involved in Ian's case, thank you for your dedication and perseverance. Particular thanks to go to our family liaison officer for her continued support and explanations.

“To our friends and family who wrapped their arms around us and never faltered, 'thank you' will never be enough. Our family has been overwhelmed by the love and support shown to us since that dreadful day and we thank you all for your kind words and actions.

“Ian was full of life and loved by many. Anyone who knew him will remember his enthusiasm and passion for life, but above all his kind and generous spirit. He will live on in our hearts and in the children he adored.”

Detective Superintendent Cheryl Hannan, who leads our CID, said: “Ian’s injuries caused by the dogs attacking him were catastrophic he tragically died a short time later.

“The simple fact is that Trimble-Pettitt didn’t secure his dogs properly and Ian’s death could have been avoided.

“Our thoughts remain with Ian’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

"I'd like to thank the investigation team for their hard work and preparing the evidence that led to the guilty pleas today. Also, to all those that responded on the day that Ian was attacked."

Trimble-Pettitt is due to be sentenced on 5 January 2026 at Stafford Crown Court.