Love Island winner Jack Fincham has been jailed for six weeks after his Cane Corso dog, Elvis, attacked a runner and caused injury. Fincham, aged 32, appeared at Southend Magistrates' Court on January 29, 2025, where he pleaded guilty to two counts of being in charge of dangerously out of control dogs.
The court heard how, during the first incident in September 2022, Elvis bit runner Robert Sudell as he was jogging through Swanley, Kent. Initially, Mr. Sudell accepted Fincham's apology, which led to the hope of avoiding legal repercussions. Fincham was expected to attend a responsible dog ownership course and adhere to conditions, such as muzzling his dog. Unfortunately, things took a turn when, just months later, the same dog was involved in another uncontrolled incident.
Erin Peck, the prosecutor, explained to the court, "Mr. Sudell had accepted an apology, and Fincham was going to be cautioned before this second incident occurred." The new incident took place in June 2024 in Grays, Essex, where Elvis was again reported to be out of control, prompting police involvement and subsequent charges against Fincham.
Facing these legal challenges, Fincham's prior standing under the law came back to haunt him. Magistrate Anne Wade noted during sentencing, "Fincham was subject to a suspended sentence order at the time of the incident in Swanley, which was for unrelated driving matters.” The magistrate cited the importance of responsible pet ownership, emphasizing, "The dog was in a public place not abiding by the conditions to be muzzled and kept on a lead."
Following his guilty pleas, Fincham was sentenced to six weeks of imprisonment, which included activating part of his previous suspended sentence. He was also ordered to pay £3,680, which covered fines, kennelling fees, and compensation for Mr. Sudell. At the end of the hearing, Fincham, who appeared defiant, gave a thumbs up as he was led to his cell, showing detachment from the courtroom emotions, where some members of the public, including his girlfriend, were visibly upset.
Fincham gained fame after winning the 2018 series of Love Island alongside his then-girlfriend, Dani Dyer. Despite their initial success, their relationship faced challenges, and they broke up six months later. Fincham’s recent legal issues add to his troubled past, including previous arrests for driving offenses. His representative, Richard Cooper, confirmed to the court, "He has no savings," as the court mandated him to settle his financial obligations through installment payments beginning at £400 per month.
The court’s ruling has highlighted the responsibility of dog owners and the consequences of failing to comply with established regulations, representing both public safety concerns and the legal repercussions of neglecting pet ownership duties. Following the sentencing, the magistrate also laid out strict conditions pertaining to Elvis's future, manding he must be muzzled and kept on lead in public areas, and he cannot be left alone with anyone under the age of 16. Such regulations aim to mitigate the risks posed by potentially dangerous breeds, especially since Cane Corsos, recognized for their strength, require disciplined training and handling.
The recent surge in the popularity of breeds like Cane Corsos, coupled with reports of dog attacks, has raised alarms on how prospective pet owners should engage with such responsibilities, especially after new laws banning specific breeds have been instituted. A quick search reveals puppies of this breed currently on sale, with prices hitting as high as £1,800.
Jack Fincham’s situation serves as both a personal crisis and broader societal reflection on the intersections of celebrity, responsibility, and public safety. It stands as a poignant reminder of the significant consequences tied to dog ownership—and the pressing need for responsible behavior from pet owners, particularly those with breeds known for their power and potential for aggression.