Dudley Payne, a 29-year-old resident of Penwortham, Lancashire, has been handed the longest prison sentence ever given under the Animal Welfare Act, according to the RSPCA. Payne was convicted of causing “horrific injuries” to an 11-week-old American bully breed puppy named Rocko.

The puppy suffered from severe head trauma, a ruptured liver, a partial hip fracture, and a prolapsed eyeball. Additionally, it had cigarette burns on its groin and scratches consistent with being inflicted by fingernails, the animal welfare charity reported.

Payne, who had owned Rocko for only six days, was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison. In addition to the prison sentence, he has been banned from owning animals for a period of 15 years.

RSPCA inspector Emma Dingley, who has been working in the field for eight years, described the case as the most “shocking and violent act of deliberate cruelty” towards an animal that she has ever encountered.

The RSPCA was alerted to the situation after Rocko was taken to a vet on February 2, 2022. Unfortunately, the puppy was already dead upon arrival. A post-mortem examination revealed the extent of the injuries, prompting the vet to contact the RSPCA immediately.

During the trial at Preston Crown Court, a vet testified that Rocko’s injuries indicated intentional harm. Payne claimed that the injuries occurred while he was performing CPR on the dog after it had difficulty breathing. However, the jury found him guilty of animal cruelty under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 after a four-day trial.

After the sentencing at Lancaster Crown Court, Inspector Dingley expressed her disbelief and horror at the treatment of Rocko. She stated that the investigation would stay with her forever but was glad that some justice was served for the puppy. She believes that the lengthy prison sentence reflects the severity of the case.

The RSPCA hopes that this case serves as a strong deterrent against animal cruelty and highlights the need for stricter punishments for such offences.