A Michigan couple has been sentenced following a fatal dog attack that claimed the life of a father of six in 2024. Harold Phillips, 35, was savagely attacked by three dogs while returning home from a shopping trip on January 29, 2024. The dogs, a bulldog, a Staffordshire bull terrier, and an American Staffordshire terrier, attacked Phillips less than a mile from his home. Phillips tragically succumbed to his injuries on February 2, 2024.
The dogs’ owners, Roy Eric Goodman, 41, and Trevina Quiche Goodman, 39, were charged with possession of a dangerous animal causing death. The couple pleaded no contest to the charges. On Friday, the couple received their sentences. Roy Goodman was sentenced to a prison term ranging from 30 months to 15 years. Trevina Goodman was given a more lenient sentence of three years probation, with the potential for an 18-month to 15-year prison term if she violates her probation terms, according to Wayne County Assistant Prosecutor Maria Miller.
During his sentencing hearing, Roy Goodman expressed his remorse to the Phillips family. “To the Phillips family, I’m so sorry,” he said. “I wish it wouldn’t have happened. I’m so sorry.” The dogs had escaped from the Goodman’s property through an unlocked gate on the day of the attack. Roy Goodman had let the dogs out in his yard and went back inside his house, only to find them missing when he returned.
Upon hearing cries for help, Goodman located his dogs and found them attacking Phillips. He managed to corral the dogs and called 911 for the victim. The dogs were later handed over to authorities and euthanized.
The attack occurred near the intersection of Longacre Street and West Chicago Road. Phillips’ injuries were so severe that doctors had to amputate one of his arms in an attempt to save his life. However, he passed away a few days later.
Phillips’ wife, Shauntaye, expressed her grief over her husband’s death and gratitude for the community’s support. “It’s painful to think of all the important milestones Harold will miss in our children’s lives,” she said. “Our lives will never be the same. We are forever grateful for our community’s prayers, donations and support you’ve given our family.”
The Phillips family has also filed a lawsuit against Detroit’s animal control agency and its former director, alleging that previous warnings about the dogs were ignored. The family hopes that this tragedy will serve as a reminder for pet owners to take better care of their animals.