Courts / Dublin / Report
Dog owner cruelly killed pet by repeatedly swinging it by lead and smashing it in to ground in Dublin park
Summary
Liam Dowling, 44, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to killing a protected animal at Clonliffe College on August 19, 2014. Prosecution evidence alleged that Dowling swung a Jack Russell dog by its lead and smashed it into the ground up to 30 times, an act witnessed by children. A DSPCA veterinarian determined the dog died from repeated blunt force trauma. Dowling claimed the sick pet was a family dog and that he could not afford vet bills, stating he intended to smother the animal but engaged in distorted behaviour due to antidepressants. Judge Martin Nolan described the actions as incredibly cruel but noted Dowling's status as a contributing member of society who cares for a child. The judge indicated an intention to impose 200 hours of community service in lieu of a two-year sentence, provided Dowling is deemed suitable. He also declined to impose an animal ban to avoid depriving Dowling's child of a dog. The matter was adjourned until October pending a community service report.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Dog owner cruelly killed pet by repeatedly swinging it by lead and smashing it in to ground in Dublin park. Charges or matters: killing a protected animal at Clonliffe College on August 19, 2014. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- August 19, 2014 Incident
- 2015-07-29 Publication
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: killing a protected animal at Clonliffe College on August 19, 2014 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: He further noted that Dowling cares for a child and is a "contributing member of society." The judge said he intends to impose 200 hours of community service in lieu of a two year sentence if Dowling is suitable. Judge Nolan adjourned the matter until October pending a community service report.; Judge Nolan adjourned the matter until October pending a community service report.
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