Former West Ham United star Said Benrahma is facing trial after two of his dogs – believed to be an XL Bully and an American Bulldog – allegedly attacked and injured a man while out on a walk in east London.
The 30-year-old footballer, who spent four seasons at the London Stadium before leaving for Lyon last year, has been charged with two counts of owning dangerously out-of-control dogs.
The alleged incident took place near his former home in Hornchurch, east London, in 2023.
If found guilty, Benrahma could face a significant fine, a possible prison sentence, or restrictions on owning animals in future.
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In certain cases, courts can also order that dogs involved in attacks be put down.
The Algerian-born player, who often shares photos of his two pets, Ghost and Cali, on social media, was not present at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Thursday because he is currently in Saudi Arabia, where he plays for Neom SC.
During the brief hearing, Benrahma’s lawyer, Adrian England, asked for the case to be adjourned to allow time to obtain more information about the charges.
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Former West Ham star Said Benrahma has regularly shared photos of his dogs on social media
|He told the court, per the Daily Mail: “I want an application to request an adjournment.
“I know nothing about the basics except for the absolute basics.
“I don’t know precisely what he has been charged for. I need to take instructions from his solicitor in Monaco to contact him and speak to him to receive proper instructions.”
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Said Benrahma helped West Ham win the UEFA Conference League back in 2023
|PA
Mr England suggested that Benrahma would deny the allegations and added that his client was “hoping to keep costs to an absolute minimum.”
Magistrate Roger King confirmed that the case would remain at the magistrates’ court rather than being sent to the crown court.
Benrahma, as a result, is expected to appear either in person or via video link later this month.
The forward became West Ham’s third most expensive signing when he joined from Brentford for £30million in 2021.
He went on to make 155 appearances for the Hammers, scoring 24 goals across all competitions and playing an important role in their 2023 Europa Conference League triumph under David Moyes.
His performances earned him admiration for his flair and attacking creativity, though his final months at the club were marked by inconsistency and reduced playing time.
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Said Benrahma currently struts his stuff in Saudi Arabia
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After joining Lyon initially on loan, the move was made permanent for £12m, but he struggled to establish himself in Ligue 1.
Earlier this year, he transferred to Saudi Arabia to join Neom SC, who reportedly paid £13m to secure his signature after winning promotion to the country’s top division.
The Algerian international, capped 22 times for his country, has since continued his career in the Middle East.
The case comes at a time when dangerous dog ownership is under intense scrutiny in the UK, following several high-profile incidents and new government measures targeting the XL Bully breed.
The government have tightened regulations under the Dangerous Dogs Act, requiring owners of restricted breeds to register their pets for exemption certificates or face prosecution.
Benrahma has not made any public comment regarding the allegations.