In May, Justice Eric Macklin found MacDonald guilty of criminal negligence causing death and sentenced her to conditional house arrest for two years less a day, a lifetime ban on owning, supervising or controlling dogs, and 200 hours of community service. She will serve the sentence in Penticton, B.C. Crown prosecutors had sought a five‑year prison term, while the defence asked for the conditional sentence. MacDonald’s lawyer said she intends to appeal the conviction.

Judge Macklin listed several aggravating factors: MacDonald had not properly trained the dogs, the dogs had previously attacked people and killed two pets, the victim was a young and vulnerable child, and the manner of death was described as "horrific." The judge also noted MacDonald’s expressed remorse and lack of intent, which influenced the decision to impose a conditional rather than a custodial sentence.

The case illustrates that negligent dog ownership can lead to severe penalties, including house‑arrest, lifetime bans, and community service, especially when the dogs have a history of aggression and the victim is a child.