A Sheffield woman has been found guilty of owning a dog dangerously out of control after her XL Bully ‘dog ‘Ghost’ became loose and caused fear in a residential area.

Sophie Zaherali, 31, from Dykes Hall Road, appeared before Sheffield Magistrates’ Court on Monday, where she was found guilty of owning a dog dangerously out of control.

Last year, police received reports that a loose XL Bully named ‘Ghost’ bit a woman on the arm and showed aggression towards another person walking their dog on Dunella Road in Hillsborough.

Armed officers were deployed after the reports and, upon arrival, found the dog running loose with no owner in sight.

South Yorkshire Police said the dog ran towards officers, who decided to shoot it to “end and mitigate the risk it posed to the public.”

Firearms Inspector Steve Usher said: “Dogs are the responsibility of their owners, and they are the ones who will be held responsible for their animal’s actions.”

Following the incident, Zaherali posted images online in an attempt to identify one of the firearms officers involved.

She was charged with sending an offensive or menacing message via a public communications network and pleaded guilty.

Other charges, including allowing a fighting dog in public without a muzzle or lead and a second communications offence, were dismissed.

Inspector Usher said: “Sadly, in South Yorkshire, our officers have witnessed and attempted to save the lives of people mauled by their own animals. Everyone’s safety will always be our priority.”

Zzaherali is due to return to Sheffield Magistrates’ Court on 16 December for sentencing.