CHRISTOPHER BOUND'S HORRIFIC CRUELTY IN BICTON HEATH SHREWSBURY

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Bicton Heath in Shrewsbury, Christopher Edward Bound, born on December 17, 1993, from Rothley Drive, was found guilty of subjecting a defenseless two-year-old pug named Shelby to a brutal and prolonged assault, which ultimately resulted in her death.

Despite his lawyer's claims that Bound was troubled and in need of psychological help, residents of Bicton Heath have described him as a violent and dangerous individual. Witnesses reported that Bound, who has a history of substance abuse, specifically cocaine use, physically assaulted Shelby by punching, kicking, and violently throwing her against a wall. The attack was so severe that Shelby was heard screeching in pain during the incident.

The incident occurred late in the evening on February 24, 2019. Neighbors, alarmed by the loud screeches and the sounds of violence, quickly alerted the police. According to court testimony, the neighbors observed Bound shouting commands such as 'get back in your bed' while kicking something, which they later identified as Shelby. They saw him kicking the dog repeatedly, and at one point, witnessed him throw Shelby against a patio door and then against a wall. The neighbors continued to watch in distress as Bound, after removing his T-shirt, persisted in kicking and punching the animal. The dog's screams gradually diminished, indicating the severity of the injuries inflicted.

When police arrived at the scene, they found Bound with bloodstains on his T-shirt. The dog was discovered in her bed with severe injuries, which were later confirmed by veterinary examination to include internal bleeding. Despite urgent medical intervention, Shelby could not be saved and died from her injuries.

During the court proceedings, the prosecution, led by Kate Price, detailed the horrific nature of the attack. She recounted how the neighbor's distress prompted them to call the authorities, and how the police found Shelby in a critical state. The court heard that the injuries inflicted were consistent with a prolonged and violent assault.

Bound, who admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, faced charges at Telford Magistrates Court. His defense attorney, Adrian Roberts, provided a background of Bound's life prior to the incident, describing him as having a relatively normal life until 2013, when his brother died of cancer. Roberts explained that Bound was once a successful sportsman, participating in local rugby and cricket teams in Newport, and was employed by Laura Ashley. However, Roberts also acknowledged that Bound turned to cocaine as a means of coping with his grief and emotional pain. The defense highlighted that Bound's girlfriend, present in court along with his father, was a stabilizing influence, and that Bound had been suffering from depression and anxiety, suggesting he was a man in need of help.

Following the case, Simon Paulo from the Crown Prosecution Service emphasized the importance of animal welfare and the responsibility owners have towards their pets. He praised the neighbors for their quick action in reporting the incident and urged others to do the same if they witness animal cruelty, reinforcing that such acts are criminal offenses.

In sentencing, Bound received a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, along with 35 days of rehabilitation. He was also ordered to pay costs and charges totaling £1,200. Most notably, he was banned from owning animals for life, a measure intended to prevent any future harm to animals in his care.