Key facts
- Kelcie Reed, 24, admitted being in charge of an XL bully dog that killed her cousin.
- Morgan Dorsett, 19, died from neck injuries after being attacked by the dog in February 2025.
- Reed was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months, and must undergo mental health treatment.
- The judge noted cocaine in the victim's system contributed to erratic behavior that may have triggered the attack.
- Reed attempted to intervene in the attack and sustained injuries herself.
- The dog, Prince, was humanely destroyed.
- Morgan's family is advocating for legislative changes regarding banned dog breeds.
A woman has received an 18-week suspended prison sentence for being in charge of an XL bully dog that killed her teenage cousin. Kelcie Reed, 24, admitted responsibility for the attack that resulted in the death of 19-year-old Morgan Dorsett in February 2025 at Reed's flat in south Bristol.
At Bristol Crown Court, Judge Anna Richardson sentenced Reed to 18 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and mandated mental health treatment. The judge noted that cocaine found in Morgan Dorsett's system had caused her to act erratically, leading to the dog's aggressive response. Reed attempted to intervene in the attack, sustaining injuries herself.
Morgan Dorsett died from severe neck and face injuries. The dog, named Prince, was sedated and humanely destroyed by authorities. In a victim impact statement, Morgan's mother, Marie Smith, described the profound and lasting grief the family endures. Her sister, Caeila Dorsett, remembered Morgan as a "super bubbly" and positive individual.
The family is collaborating with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to address perceived loopholes in legislation concerning banned dog breeds, particularly concerning ownership and enforcement. Detective Sergeant Rich Glanville of Avon and Somerset Police called the investigation complex and challenging, emphasizing the importance of owner responsibility and understanding a dog's temperament.