A tragic case in Ohio has ended with a father sentenced for the death of his 3-year-old daughter, who was mauled by his dogs.
Father Sentenced for Daughter’s Death
Warren Houston was sentenced to five to seven and a half years in prison after being found guilty of involuntary manslaughter, reckless homicide, and endangering children. The sentencing took place on May 22, 2026, at the Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas. Judge Virginia Tallent also included two to five years of probation following Houston’s release.
The Fatal Attack
The incident occurred on December 27, 2024, in Houston’s Cincinnati apartment. Houston and his girlfriend reportedly slept while his two pit bulls attacked his 3-year-old daughter, Kingsley Wright, for nearly 30 minutes. Kingsley died from a dislocated neck and blood loss.
Prosecutors said Houston knew at least one of the dogs was dangerous but kept them in a cage with a broken latch. Letting Kingsley sleep in the same room demonstrated a reckless disregard for her safety.
Judge Tallent called the harm “catastrophic and irreversible” and said the dangerous conditions existed over time, culminating in Kingsley’s death.
Statements from Family and Court
Kingsley’s mother, Gina Smith, shared a statement read by Assistant Prosecutor Elyse Deters:
“Kingsley was abruptly and violently taken away due to Warren Houston’s recklessness, carelessness, and glaring indifference towards her safety and well-being.
Every morning is the beginning of a new nightmare for me… I see no light at the end of my dark and seemingly infinite tunnel.”
Houston’s attorney called the mauling a tragic accident.
Remembering Kingsley
Kingsley was remembered in her obituary as “a happy girl with a beautiful laugh and smile.” She loved singing and dancing and always saw the bright side of life, bringing joy to her family.
