Romford Man Charged: Toddler Dog Attack 2026

Key Points

• A two-year-old girl was attacked and injured by two dogs in Raphael Park, Romford, on Monday, February 2, 2026.
• Officers investigating the incident have charged a 63-year-old man from Romford.
• The man was arrested on Saturday, February 14, 2026, in connection with the Raphael Park incident and a previous incident in September 2024 at Bedfords Park, where a man sustained minor injuries.
• The man faces three offences under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 related to both incidents.
• He is scheduled to appear before Barkingside Magistrates’ Court next month.
• The two dogs involved in the Raphael Park attack were seized by the Metropolitan Police earlier this month.
• Acting Chief Inspector Charlie Routley, of Havering Safer Neighbourhoods, described the investigation as thorough into two serious community incidents and emphasised that allowing a dog to be dangerously out of control is a criminal offence.
• Routley expressed thoughts with the young victim and her family, wished her a continued and full recovery, and thanked members of the public for providing invaluable information.

Romford (East London Times) February 17, 2026 – A 63-year-old man from Romford has been charged following a horrific dog attack on a two-year-old girl in Raphael Park on Monday, February 2. The incident, which left the toddler injured, prompted a swift police investigation leading to the man’s arrest on Saturday, February 14, and charges under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 for offences linked to this attack and a prior one in Bedfords Park last September. The dogs involved were seized by the Metropolitan Police, as confirmed in official statements.

What Happened in Raphael Park?

The attack occurred in Raphael Park, Romford, a popular local green space, on February 2, 2026. According to details reported across local outlets, the two-year-old girl suffered injuries after being mauled by two dogs described in initial coverage as Rottweiler-type breeds. As per the Essex Live news article covering the story, officers investigating the incident in Raphael Park, Romford, on Monday, February 2, where a two-year-old girl was attacked and injured by two dogs, have now charged a man [ from initial context]. The child was rushed to hospital, though specific details on her condition remain limited to protect her privacy.

This incident has shocked the Romford community, known for its family-friendly parks. The dogs were seized by the Met earlier this month, preventing further risks. Acting Chief Inspector Charlie Routley, of Havering Safer Neighbourhoods, stated:

“This has been a thorough investigation into two serious incidents in our community. Allowing a dog to be dangerously out of control is a criminal offence.”

His comments underscore the gravity of the breaches under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

Who Is the Man Charged and What Are the Charges?

The suspect is a 63-year-old man residing in Romford. He was arrested on Saturday, February 14, 2026, in direct connection with the Raphael Park attack and an earlier incident at Bedfords Park in September 2024, which left a man with minor injuries. The man has been charged with three offences under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, a key piece of legislation aimed at curbing dangerous dog behaviour in public places.

As detailed in the official police release covered by Essex Live, the charges relate to both incidents, highlighting a pattern of alleged irresponsibility with the animals. He will appear before Barkingside Magistrates’ Court next month, where further details of the case are expected to emerge. No names have been released yet, in line with standard UK reporting restrictions until formal court proceedings.

What Was the Previous Incident at Bedfords Park?

In September 2024, another incident unfolded at Bedfords Park, also in the Romford area, where a man sustained minor injuries from what authorities link to the same dogs or ownership. This earlier event involved a man being attacked, though specifics on the nature of the injuries were described only as minor. The connection between the two parks—both within Havering—prompted the broader investigation.

The police arrest on February 14 tied these events together, with the 63-year-old man now facing charges encompassing both. Acting Chief Inspector Charlie Routley noted the thoroughness of the probe spanning these “two serious incidents in our community,” as reported verbatim in the Essex Live coverage [ from initial context]. This linkage strengthens the case under the Dangerous Dogs Act, which covers allowing dogs to be dangerously out of control in public.

Why Were the Dogs Seized?

The two dogs central to the Raphael Park attack were seized by the Metropolitan Police earlier this month, shortly after the February 2 incident. This action aligns with protocol under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, which empowers officers to remove animals posing imminent threats. No further details on the dogs’ breeds beyond “Rottweiler-type” in initial reports have been confirmed, nor their current status post-seizure.

The seizure ensures public safety in Romford parks, areas frequented by families and children. As per the police statement, this step was crucial in progressing the investigation. Community members have welcomed the move, amid heightened awareness of dog control laws.

What Did Acting Chief Inspector Charlie Routley Say?

Acting Chief Inspector Charlie Routley, of Havering Safer Neighbourhoods, provided key insights into the case. He said: “This has been a thorough investigation into two serious incidents in our community. Allowing a dog to be dangerously out of control is a criminal offence.

“My thoughts remain with the young victim and her family, and I wish her a continued and full recovery. I would also like to thank the members of the public who came forward and contacted us with information. Your support and cooperation have been invaluable in progressing this investigation.”

These remarks, quoted directly from the official release via Essex Live, reflect police empathy and appreciation for public assistance.

Routley’s emphasis on the criminality of uncontrolled dogs serves as a reminder of legal obligations for owners. His well-wishes to the toddler highlight the human impact.

How Did the Public Help the Investigation?

Public cooperation proved vital, as noted by Acting Chief Inspector Routley. He specifically thanked “members of the public who came forward and contacted us with information,” crediting their “support and cooperation” for advancing the probe. Witnesses likely provided crucial details on the February 2 attack and possibly the September 2024 incident.

In Romford’s close-knit community, such appeals often yield quick responses. This input facilitated the February 14 arrest and subsequent charges, demonstrating effective community-policing ties in Havering.

When and Where Is the Court Appearance?

The charged man is set to appear before Barkingside Magistrates’ Court next month, following standard timelines for such cases. Barkingside, serving the east London and Essex region, will handle initial proceedings under the Dangerous Dogs Act. Dates are provisional pending formal listing.

This court date marks the next phase, where evidence including witness statements and police findings will be presented. Coverage from outlets like Essex Live and Romford-based reporters will likely follow updates.

What Is the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991?

The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 forms the legal backbone of this case, prohibiting dogs from being dangerously out of control in public places. The three charges against the 63-year-old stem directly from its provisions, covering injuries caused to the toddler and the man in Bedfords Park. Enacted post high-profile attacks, it mandates muzzling, leashing, and owner liability.

Acting Chief Inspector Routley reiterated:

“Allowing a dog to be dangerously out of control is a criminal offence,”

embedding the Act’s core message. Penalties can include fines, imprisonment, and destruction orders for the dogs.

What Is the Condition of the Two-Year-Old Victim?

The two-year-old girl, the most vulnerable victim, was left injured after the February 2 mauling in Raphael Park. Police and Acting Chief Inspector Routley have expressed hopes for her “continued and full recovery,” with thoughts extended to her family. No detailed medical updates have been released, respecting child privacy protocols.

The incident’s severity on such a young child has amplified community outrage and calls for stricter enforcement. Her welfare remains paramount as the legal process unfolds.

How Has the Romford Community Responded?

Romford residents, particularly those using Raphael and Bedfords Parks, have voiced concerns over dog safety. The attacks underscore risks in public spaces, prompting discussions on local control measures. Public tips to police highlight community vigilance.

As a Havering hub, Romford sees heavy park usage; this case may spur awareness campaigns. Neutral observers note balanced responses, blending sympathy for victims with adherence to fair trial principles.

Broader Implications for Dog Ownership in Havering?

These incidents spotlight enforcement of the Dangerous Dogs Act across east London. With two attacks linked to one owner, questions arise on prior warnings or monitoring. Acting Chief Inspector Routley’s comments affirm rigorous policing.

Havering Safer Neighbourhoods’ role exemplifies proactive measures. Future coverage may explore prevention strategies, ensuring parks remain safe.