Two women have been jailed over a dog attack that caused the death of a nine-year-old boy at a Cornwall holiday park last year.

Frankie MacRitchie, from Plymouth, died after he was attacked by a dog inside a caravan at Tencreek Holiday Park, Looe, on Saturday, April 13, 2019. 

Today Sadie Totterdell, aged 29, from Plymouth, was sentenced to three years in prison at Truro Crown Court, having previously pleaded guilty to being the owner/person in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury resulting in death.

Falmouth Packet:

Sadie Totterdell

Frankie’s mother, Tawnee Willis, aged 31, from Plymouth, was sentenced to two years in prison, having previously pleaded guilty to neglecting a young person, causing unnecessary suffering/injury.

In a statement, Frankie’s family, said: “Frankie was a special young boy. He was funny, caring and kind – his smile would melt your heart. He was always joking around and he loved everyone.

“Frankie was just becoming a little lad, growing fast, and in a blink of an eye he was gone. The impact of our boy’s passing on us is huge. We are truly heartbroken.

Read more: Child dies from 'dog attack' at Tencreek Holiday Park in Looe

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for the help love support and kindness over the last 14 months. The love and compassion for our boy Frankie has been unbelievably beautiful.”

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Steve Hambly said: “This has been a tragic and upsetting time for all who knew and loved Frankie and his loss continues to be felt among his home community in Plymouth.

“Given the circumstances and nature of the incident, this was hugely difficult for all of those who were present at the scene and who have had to come to terms with Frankie’s death.

Read next: Tribute to 'happy, cheeky boy' who died in holiday park dog attack

“No one intended for Frankie to be harmed, but Miss Willis accepts that her care of Frankie was neglectful on that night.

"The dog involved was physically large and powerful, and Miss Totterdell accepts it was dangerously out of control.

“The sentences today provide a real reminder of the responsibilities on dog owners and parents alike.

“Today’s conclusion will hopefully allow a sense of closure for those close to Frankie.”