The Soissons criminal court is expected to deliver its verdict this Thursday in the case of the death of Elisa Pilarski, which occurred in November 2019 in a forest in the Aisne region. The pregnant woman's partner, Christophe Ellul, is being prosecuted for manslaughter following her death, which was caused by multiple dog bites attributed to his dog, Curtis.
During the trial, held last March, the prosecution requested a four-year suspended sentence. The judges must also decide on the fate of the animal, an American Pit Bull Terrier that has been in a specialized kennel for over six years, and whose euthanasia has been requested by the prosecution.
A case that continues to divide opinion
The investigation gradually ruled out the possibility of an attack linked to hunting dogs present in the area at the time of the incident. Expert analyses conducted during the investigation led investigators to conclude that the victim's partner's dog was responsible. The court will have to determine whether any aggravating circumstances apply, particularly regarding the animal's living and training conditions.
Alongside the legal proceedings, Curtis's fate has mobilized numerous animal welfare organizations. Several have offered to take in the dog to prevent his euthanasia, while petitions gathering over 100.000 signatures have been launched in recent months. A rally of support is also planned outside the courthouse when the verdict is delivered.
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