CONVICTED (2022) | Martin Mansley, born c. 1970, of Preesall Close, Preston PR2 1NU and Daniel Gardner, born c. 1978, of Starrgate Drive, Preston PR2 1NA – set fire to a dog pen, causing fatal injuries to a family’s pet.
Mansley and Gardner were jailed for a total of 19 years and 6 months for their part in an arson attack which killed a 10-year-old collie cross dog, named Patch.
Police were called to an address on Sowerby Road, near Sowerby, at around 11.30pm on September 13, 2020, to a suspicious fire.
Officers found the fire, which was started deliberately, at the front of the property, engulfing a large dog pen containing Patch.
A neighbour managed to open the kennel door to allow the dog to escape. Badly injured and in immense pain, Patch fled the scene. A search and rescue operation was launched to find him and two days later he was discovered, still alive, lying in a ditch.
Patch was rushed to a vet with severe burns down one side of his body and a damaged eye. He was also suffering from smoke inhalation and pneumonia. Due to the severity of his injuries, he couldn’t be saved and was put down a few days later.
Patch’s family suffered a second arson attempt one night after the initial attack when a bottle containing petrol was thrown at the house. Fortunately, it failed to light, and nobody was injured.
The perpetrators, Mansley and Gardner, were charges with offences related to arson but not animal cruelty.
Mansley admitted two counts of reckless arson after a week-long trial.
Gardner was found guilty of reckless arson and attempted reckless arson.
Detective Constable Mark Ryan said: “These were targeted and dangerous crimes which resulted in the death of a much loved family pet.
“The injuries suffered by the dog have caused a significant amount of trauma to the family and I thank them for their bravery in telling the court about the impact these crimes have had on them.
“Compounding this suffering, the offenders have returned and recklessly tried to set fire to the house with them in it.
“I hope this sentencing sends out a warning to people who think this irresponsible behaviour is acceptable, that they will be tracked down and prosecuted.”
Sentencing |
Custodial: Mansley was sentenced to 11 years with an extended 5 years on licence and Gardner was sentenced to 8 years and 6 months.
Mentally Disturbed Scum.
At least they won’t be bothering any one else for a long time.
Dans dad mush 😂