Said Benrahma fined after two dogs escaped and attacked a golden retriever

Former West Ham winger Said Benrahma has been fined after two of his dogs escaped from his Hornchurch home and attacked a golden retriever in July 2023.

The court heard the animals were XL bullies which left the property through a side gate that, Benrahma said, had been left open by someone working for him. Once loose they chased and attacked a golden retriever called Bailey, which later required veterinary treatment.

The dog’s owner, Luke Rehbin, suffered grazes to his arms and legs while grappling with the dogs, Willesden Magistrates’ Court was told.

District Judge Matt Jabbitt said the incident must have been “very distressing” for the golden retriever’s owner.

Benrahma appeared at the hearing by video link from a car in Saudi Arabia, where he now plays in the Saudi Pro League.

The court ordered fines of £5,000 for each of the two counts of owning dangerously out of control dogs, and instructed Benrahma to pay £2,500 compensation to Mr Rehbin, plus £495 kennel costs.

Benrahma spent four seasons at West Ham after joining from Brentford in October 2020, scoring 24 goals in 155 games for the club. He later moved to Lyon and is currently with Neom. He also represents the Algerian national team.