CPS handed Ellie dog death case

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Prosecutors are deciding whether anyone should face criminal charges over the death of a five-year-old girl who was mauled by a pit bull terrier.

Ellie Lawrenson suffered severe head and neck injuries in the attack by the family pet at her grandmother's St Helens home on New Year's Day.

Detectives have finished their inquiry and have passed on their file to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

Pit bulls are one of four breeds banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

Ellie's grandmother, Jackie Simpson, 46, needed emergency surgery for arm injuries after she was attacked as she tried to save Ellie from the animal.

The one-year-old dog, named Reuben, was shot dead by police at the scene.

Two previous complaints had been made about the pet, which belonged to Ellie's uncle.

A spokeswoman for Merseyside Police said: "I can confirm we have concluded our investigation into the death of Ellie Lawrenson.

"A file has been prepared and handed over to the Crown Prosecution Service for its consideration.

"It would be inappropriate at this stage to comment any further on the findings of our investigation."

Owning pit bull terriers is illegal under the 1991 act and carries a maximum punishment of six months in jail or a Â£5,000 fine.