ADRIAN STRAW FROM BULWELL SENTENCED AFTER CRUELLY KILLING HIS PET CAT IN NOTTINGHAM

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Adrian Straw, a resident of Bulwell, Nottingham, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to his elderly pet cat, Lupo. The incident took place early in the morning on July 4, 2017, when Straw was seen by a neighbor violently attacking the 14-year-old feline in his garden.

According to reports, Straw used a hammer to strike Lupo three times over the head. The neighbor, witnessing this brutal act, was horrified and reported the incident to authorities. The female cat was heard screaming in pain as Straw carried out the attack outside his home at approximately 5:50 am. The distressing sounds and the violent nature of the act prompted immediate concern among residents and animal welfare officials.

During the court proceedings, Straw admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to Lupo and acknowledged that he had failed to meet her basic needs, which is a violation of the Animal Welfare Act. The presiding Justice of the Peace, Marion Smalley, addressed Straw directly, stating, “The animal had been in pain before with its paws because of ingrowing toenails, and you did not seek medical treatment for it. You killed the animal, causing acute suffering. We heard it scream out. There was no excuse not to take it to a vet or an animal charity for treatment. The incident caused distress to neighbors.”

Straw also pleaded guilty to failing to provide adequate veterinary care for Lupo’s ingrowing nails, which had become severely overgrown, penetrating her pads, and growing into nearly a complete circle. This condition would have caused her significant pain and discomfort, especially on her front paws. The court found that Straw’s actions were not only cruel but also neglectful, as he chose to end her suffering through violence rather than seeking proper medical assistance.

Following the conviction, RSPCA inspector Laura Kirkham expressed her concerns, stating, “I will never know the real motives or whether Lupo was conscious when this incident occurred. Subjecting Lupo to blows to the head with a hammer is completely inappropriate. If there were any concerns for her health, then either an emergency vet or ourselves should have been contacted for advice or help.” She further highlighted the severity of Lupo’s condition, noting that her claws had grown so extensively that they had penetrated her pads and formed almost a complete circle, indicating a prolonged period of neglect and pain.

In sentencing, Straw received a 12-week prison sentence, which was suspended for one year. He was also ordered to complete 140 hours of community service and was required to pay total costs and charges amounting to £905. Additionally, Straw was banned for life from keeping any animals, a measure intended to prevent any future cruelty. The case has sparked widespread condemnation and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and responsible pet ownership in Nottingham and beyond.