A Columbus, Ohio mother has been sentenced to three years in prison following a tragic dog attack that resulted in the death of her 6-month-old baby last year, according to the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office.
Alyssa Smith received the maximum penalty for child endangerment after her infant was fatally mauled by her boyfriend’s pit bull on April 28, 2024. The incident occurred at the home of Blake Bates on Miami Street in Marion, where Smith and Bates were living at the time.
Prosecutors stated that Smith left her infant unsupervised with a young child nearby, while Bates left his pit bull — known to have a history of aggression — in the same room. The dog reportedly attacked the baby’s head. The child was rushed to Marion General Hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The following day, authorities seized and euthanized the pit bull. Several other pit bulls were also found in the home.
“This sentence holds a mother accountable for failing her infant in the most tragic way,” said Marion County Prosecutor Ray Grogan. “Smith’s actions — particularly ignoring the dog’s dangerous past — reflect a pattern of irresponsibility that ultimately led to baby Royal’s death.”
Prosecutors also revealed that Blake Bates had previously been warned about the pit bull’s aggressive behavior after it attacked another child. Despite being charged and cautioned by animal control, Bates allegedly failed to take the necessary steps to prevent another incident.
“Dog owners have a duty to keep others safe — especially children — when it comes to aggressive animals,” Grogan said.
Bates, who faces multiple charges, recently pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter related to the same incident. He is currently awaiting sentencing and may face additional charges, including strangulation and escape while in custody.
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