- Sunderland, United Kingdom -
On May 30, 22-years-old LUKE PROFFIT (pictured) appeared in Newcastle Crown Court and after pleading guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, he was sentenced to only 18 months behind bars and banned from owning animals for 18 years.
On December 16, 2021, PROFFIT stabbed his German Shepherd named Bella, 12 times and left her to die on Hendon Beach in Sunderland.
Members of the public found the furbaby laying on the beach with severe injuries to her body and neck.
Sadly, despite efforts to save her, Bella passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest.
In a news release, Northumbria Police said that upon arrest, PROFFIT told officers: “It’s not illegal to kill your dog.”
Wildlife Enforcement Officer PC Peter Baker, with Northumbria Police welcomed the sentence handed down to PROFFIT and had the nerve to say: “We are a nation of animal lovers, and it is always disappointing and upsetting when crimes like this happen. I hope this case sends out a strong message – anyone who hurts or abuses animals will be brought to justice.”
Every time I hear the expression “We are a nation of animal lovers” my blood boils!!!
I feel that it’s offensive toward all the innocent animals who are tortured, abused, and killed in the UK and do NOT receive any justice!!!
Judging by the ridiculous, scandalous, and outrageous sentences I see that are handed down in animal cruelty cases, I’d say the UK has a lot to learn from the U.S. judicial system!!!
Some of you may remember that with effect of June 29, 2021, the maximum prison sentence for animal cruelty was raised from six months to five years with the new Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill.
PROFFIT is one of the first offenders to be jailed since the new law and yet, the sentence handed down in this case is as ridiculous and offensive as it is the expression: “We are a nation of animal lovers.”
A press release by GOV.UK stated at the time: “The more stringent sentences will be some of the toughest in Europe. The Act will help ensure courts are able to enforce extended penalties for those who cruelly mistreat any animal, sending a clear message that animal cruelty will not be tolerated.”
Yeah, I can see the message ….
I have emailed Northumbria Police Chief Constable Keenen and requested a picture of Bella and inquired about her age.
If I get a response, I will add the information to this article.
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