Sheffield dog owner sentenced after XL Bully ran loose and bit woman
The pet had to be put down by armed officers to protect public safety
Last updated 18th Dec 2025
A Sheffield woman has been sentenced after her XL Bully dog became dangerously out of control, prompting armed police to shoot the animal.
Sophie Zaherali, 31, of Dykes Hall Road, appeared at Sheffield Magistrates’ Court on December 16, where she was handed a community order of 40 hours and fined £100.
The incident occurred over a year ago on December 7 2024, when police were called to Dunella Road, Hillsborough, at 1:10pm following reports of a loose XL Bully named ‘Ghost’ biting a woman’s arm and acting aggressively towards another person walking their dog.
The dog was found roaming the area without its owner.
Upon the arrival of armed officers, Ghost ran towards them, leading officers to make the decision to shoot the dog to eliminate the risk it posed to the public.
The decision to shoot the dog was described by police as 'carefully considered' and made to ensure community safety.
Zaherali was charged after the incident and denied owning a dog dangerously out of control, but was later found guilty.
She pleaded guilty to a public communication offence after sharing images online to identify the firearms officer involved in the dog’s shooting.
South Yorkshire firearms Inspector Steve Usher said:“As a dog owner you are the one responsible for your dog’s actions and the harm or fear they cause"
“To be a dog owner is a role of great responsibility and the consequences of slack ownership can be catastrophic.
“Sadly, across South Yorkshire, we have experienced fatal dog attacks, and we make no apologies that our priority will always be the safety of the public and our officers.
“For over a year, officers have faced significant challenges during the investigation and court hearings into Ghost and Zaherali’s actions. I trust today’s sentencing demonstrates that owners will be held responsible for the impact of their choices."