Jack Fincham, the 33-year-old winner of Love Island 2018, found himself facing legal repercussions stemming from two separate incidents involving his Cane Corso dog, Elvis. Just prior to his sentencing, Fincham indulged in a luxurious getaway with his on-off girlfriend, 24-year-old TOWIE star Chloe Brockett. The couple enjoyed a stay at the upscale Champneys Forest Mere spa hotel in Hampshire, a retreat known for its tranquil ambiance, wellness offerings, and strict rules regarding alcohol and digital devices. The cost of their stay reportedly reached up to £500 per night. This lavish escape served as a brief respite before Fincham faced the consequences of his dog’s actions.
The first incident occurred in September 2022 in Grays, Essex, when Elvis attacked a runner named Robert Sudell. While no significant harm resulted from this initial encounter, a second incident in June 2024 proved more serious. In Swanley, Kent, Elvis bit a woman’s leg, leading to charges against Fincham for being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog. Compounding the situation, Fincham was already under a suspended sentence order for a previous offense: driving under the influence of cocaine and speeding on the hard shoulder.
At Southend Magistrates’ Court, Fincham pleaded guilty and received a six-week jail sentence. The presiding magistrate, Anne Wade, activated part of his suspended sentence, citing Fincham’s failure to adhere to the conditions imposed on him regarding Elvis. These conditions stipulated that the dog must be muzzled and kept on a lead in public places, and not left unsupervised with minors. Fincham was also ordered to pay £3,680 in fines and compensation to the victims. Despite the gravity of the situation, Fincham maintained a seemingly nonchalant demeanor, giving a thumbs-up as he was escorted to the cells.
Following his sentencing, it was reported that Fincham was granted bail pending an appeal of his jail term. While courts can grant bail in exceptional circumstances, it typically comes with conditions. Fincham’s legal team expressed disappointment with the magistrates’ decision to activate the suspended sentence but remained optimistic about the outcome of the appeal in the Crown Court. They believe that upon further review, the Crown Court will deem the activation of the suspended sentence unjust. The fate of Elvis also hinges on the appeal’s outcome, with Fincham set to regain custody upon his release if he complies with the mandated conditions regarding the dog’s handling.
Fincham’s turbulent personal life has often been in the public eye since his rise to fame. His victory on Love Island in 2018 alongside Dani Dyer, daughter of actor Danny Dyer, propelled him into the spotlight. However, their relationship was short-lived, ending just months later amidst a series of disagreements. His subsequent relationship with Chloe Brockett has also been marked by periods of instability, with breakups and reconciliations playing out on social media. Despite deleting posts indicating a split, their recent spa getaway suggests a reconciliation. Prior to this, they had even discussed the possibility of engagement.
This latest legal battle adds another chapter to Fincham’s tumultuous post-Love Island journey. From reality TV star to boxer, his path has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations. The dog attack incidents and subsequent sentencing underscore the importance of responsible pet ownership and the potential consequences of failing to comply with legal obligations. As Fincham awaits the outcome of his appeal, the future remains uncertain, both for him and for Elvis. The case serves as a cautionary tale about the responsibility that comes with owning powerful breeds and the repercussions of neglecting those responsibilities. The legal proceedings also highlight the complexities of the justice system, particularly in cases involving suspended sentences and appeals.