CHRISTOPHER MATTHEWS FROM BRANSHOLME HORRIBLY ABUSES AND KILLS DOG IN HULL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Bransholme, Hull, Christopher Michael Matthews, born on 19 March 1982 and residing on Newlyn Close, was convicted of causing fatal injuries to a small dog, an Lhasa Apso cross-breed named Sasha. The incident unfolded amidst a backdrop of previous violent convictions, adding to the gravity of the offense.

Matthews admitted to the authorities that he had inflicted blunt force trauma upon Sasha, leading to her tragic death. The incident occurred after Matthews reportedly lost his temper when the dog defecated inside his home. According to court records, Matthews picked up Sasha and threw her onto a sofa in a fit of rage. This act of violence was witnessed by his partner, Alison Dewhurst, who, although not prosecuted, was complicit in attempting to conceal the true circumstances surrounding Sasha’s death.

Both Matthews and Dewhurst initially claimed that Sasha had been alive when they left the house and that she had suffered an unspecified accident in the garden, which caused her to collapse. However, this version of events was soon challenged by veterinary examinations and subsequent investigations. Sasha was taken to a veterinary clinic where she was pronounced dead upon arrival. The severity of her injuries raised immediate concerns among the veterinary staff and investigators.

The police seized Sasha’s body as evidence and launched a thorough investigation into her death. Matthews was interviewed at the scene and initially cooperated with the officers. However, he later ceased his involvement, citing concerns that he was being investigated for her death. An autopsy revealed that Sasha had suffered extensive blunt force trauma to the left side of her head and face. The examination showed bruising around her nose and mouth, bloodshot eyes, and lacerations on her liver, indicating prolonged abuse.

Philip Brown, representing the RSPCA, explained that the injuries sustained by Sasha could not have been caused by an accident, especially not one that the owners were unaware of. The findings suggested deliberate cruelty over an extended period. The post-mortem report concluded that the injuries were consistent with intentional abuse rather than an accidental fall or mishap.

During the court proceedings, Matthews’ legal representative stated that his client had been experiencing a “bad day” and that his anger was triggered when Sasha repeatedly defecated inside the house after he had already cleaned the area. This explanation was met with condemnation from animal welfare advocates and the court.

Ultimately, Matthews was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison. Additionally, he was issued an indefinite order banning him from caring for any animals in the future. He was also ordered to pay costs and fines totaling £240. The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Bransholme and highlights the importance of animal cruelty laws and enforcement in Hull.