GARY CHADWICK'S HORRIFIC CRUELTY IN SKELMERSDALE: KILLS 20-WEEK-OLD KITTEN WITH BRUTALITY

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Skelmersdale, Gary Chadwick, born on 15 January 1999 and residing at Firbeck, Skelmersdale WN8 6PN, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a defenseless animal. The incident involved a young grey and white kitten named Smokey, who tragically lost her life after suffering severe injuries inflicted by Chadwick.

Chadwick appeared before Liverpool Magistrates’ Court to face charges related to the brutal treatment of the innocent feline. The court heard that Chadwick had battered Smokey so violently that she sustained multiple fractures, kidney damage, and extensive bruising. The injuries were so severe that a veterinarian, who conducted a post-mortem examination, indicated that Smokey likely endured her suffering for several hours before succumbing to her injuries.

The case came to light when a carer for Chadwick, who has autism and a history of medication for schizophrenia, discovered the injured kitten. She recounted that she found Smokey struggling to use her front legs and heard her wailing in pain, which ultimately led to her death. The carer observed Chadwick acting suspiciously, describing his behavior as “shifty.” She noted that Chadwick claimed the noises Smokey made were typical when she used the litter tray, but her concerns prompted her to leave the house and contact the RSPCA to report what she suspected was animal cruelty.

During police interviews, Chadwick admitted to having slapped Smokey once during her brief life but denied ever throwing or kicking her. His defense attorney, David Lloyd, stated in court, “I don’t think he intended to deliberately hurt the kitten,” and added that Chadwick had asked him to inform the court that he was fond of Smokey.

Inspector Joanne McDonald, representing the RSPCA, expressed her sorrow over the case, saying, “We will never know the exact details of how the kitten came to have these injuries, but from what the expert witnesses told the court, it must have been terrible. Smokey was only 20 weeks old, and the suffering she endured after the attack was undoubtedly horrific.”

In sentencing, Chadwick received a two-year conditional discharge and was banned from keeping any animals for a period of ten years, a ban that will expire in January 2029. The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Skelmersdale, highlighting the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of cruelty towards vulnerable creatures.