A couple in Detroit received their sentencing on Friday after entering no contest pleas regarding a tragic incident where their three dogs escaped and fatally attacked a 35-year-old father walking home from a bus stop.
The Wayne County prosecutor’s office confirmed that Roy Goodman was sentenced to serve between 2 1/2 to 15 years in prison, while his wife, Trevina Goodman, received a sentence of three years’ probation.
Both individuals were found guilty of possessing a dangerous animal that caused a death.

The unfortunate attack occurred on January 29, when Harold Phillips was assaulted after the dogs managed to get out through an unsecured front gate of the couple’s home in Detroit’s west side.
Following the incident, the dogs were euthanized.
Phillips succumbed to his injuries at a hospital, leaving behind six grieving children. His wife, Shauntaye Phillips, addressed the court during the proceedings, sharing that the couple had been married for a decade.

“I never imagined having to watch him die so, so tragically,” she expressed, detailing her struggles since his death. “I’m just trying to do the best I can for my kids, now. This entire year — birthdays, Christmas — it’s been really hard.”

During the sentencing hearing, Roy Goodman turned to face Phillips’ family and expressed his remorse.
“To the Phillips family, I’m so sorry,” he stated. “I wish it wouldn’t have happened. I’m so sorry.”
This heartbreaking case underscores the serious implications of pet ownership and the responsibilities that come with it.