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Two police officers who were among the first on the scene of a dog attack which took the life of a ten-year-old boy have been nominated for a bravery award.

Sergeants Isabelle Coulson and Ross Phillips have been shortlisted for a National Police Bravery Award after they confronted and contained the killer dog called Beast.

Ten-year-old Jack Lis who attended Cwm Ifor Primary School, died on November 8, 2021, after being attacked at a friend’s house on Pentwyn, Penyrheol.

After being called to the address, PS Coulson distracted the dog while PS Phillips was able to enter the house and attend to Jack.

The dog however tried to escape from the property, but PS Phillips managed to keep the dog inside, protecting other members of the public who were outside.

PS Phillips managed to get Jack outside and away from the dog, but tragically found that Jack had died from his injuries.

Matthew Candy, Gwent Police Federation chair, said: “The brave actions undertaken by both officers show their complete selflessness and dedication to their roles as police officers.

“Both Isabelle and Ross acted professionally in such dreadful circumstances, and they did all they could to preserve life.

“They showed compassion and care for the victim but also did all that they could to protect the public and their colleagues on who attended this tragic incident.

“On behalf of our federation branch, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Jack’s family and friends.” 

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Hobrough said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Jack, who sadly died as a result of this harrowing and shocking case which has left a huge impact on our communities.

“Both of these sergeants showed outstanding bravery.

“Their actions exemplify the character and professionalism of officers across the country who place themselves into dangerous or life-threatening situations.

“Isabelle and Ross are both a credit to policing and I would like to congratulate them, on behalf of Gwent Police, for their nomination.”

Jailed

Beast, the XL American Bully, was shot dead by firearms officers after the attack and two people were jailed for their part in Jack’s death.

Amy Salter, 29, of Llanfabon Drive, Trethomas, and Brandon Hayden, 19, of Pen y Bryn in Penyrheol, were jailed at Cardiff Crown Court.

Hayden was sentenced to four-and-a-half years at a young offenders’ institution. He pleaded guilty to owning a dog dangerously out of control causing injury resulting in death.

Meanwhile, Salter was handed a three-year jail term. She pleaded guilty to being in control of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury resulting in death.

Following a spate of dog attacks in the area, the most recent being against a five-month-old baby, there have been growing calls for a change in the law governing dangerous dogs.

Jack’s mother Emma Whitfield has been leading the campaign and has taken her argument to Parliament recently.