GRZEGORZ BIENIEK'S CRUELTY IN GLASGOW: DOG SUFFERED SEVERE ABUSE AND WAS EUTHANIZED

A man responsible for inflicting repeated acts of violence and causing significant distress to a dog in Glasgow has been subjected to a substantial disqualification order, reflecting the severity of his actions. Grzegorz Bieniek, a resident of Glasgow, was found guilty of multiple acts of cruelty towards a Staffordshire Bull Terrier named Taz. The court proceedings revealed that Bieniek engaged in a series of violent assaults on the dog, including striking him multiple times with a closed fist on his body. These assaults took place on a street in Glasgow, where witnesses observed Bieniek repeatedly punching Taz on his back.

In addition to the physical abuse, Bieniek was convicted of kicking the elderly dog, who was 13 years old at the time, and pushing his head against a brick wall using his knee. The cruelty extended further when he suspended Taz by the neck with a lead attached to his collar, lifting him off the ground. This act caused the dog to swing in the air, with his front paws raised, clearly demonstrating the distress and fear inflicted upon him.

The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Inspector Boyce reported that the incident was witnessed by bystanders in October 2023. The witnesses contacted the SPCA animal helpline after observing Bieniek's aggressive behavior towards Taz. Inspector Boyce detailed that the witnesses saw Bieniek repeatedly punch the dog on his body and then suspend him by the lead, causing the dog to swing and appear visibly distressed.

Following the reports, SPCA officers responded promptly to the scene. Upon arrival at Bieniek’s residence, they requested to see the dog. Bieniek identified the dog as Taz, describing him as a 13-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The officers observed Taz emerging from the property—a dog that was notably slow in movement, likely due to age-related arthritis. His body language was indicative of fear; he had his tail tucked between his legs and trembled when Bieniek was present, signs that suggested he was anxious and under significant stress.

When questioned about the alleged abuse, Bieniek responded dismissively, claiming he had not really hit the dog. His defensive and increasingly aggressive attitude raised concerns about the welfare of Taz. Due to the evident risk to the dog’s safety, the SPCA officers contacted Police Scotland to assist in seizing Taz from the property. The process of removing the dog was complicated by his age and stiffness, necessitating that he be carried down the stairs to ensure his safety.

Veterinary examinations conducted later confirmed that Taz had no immediate injuries from the alleged abuse. However, the assessment revealed that the dog was suffering from severe and worsening arthritis, including untreatable hip dysplasia. These health issues explained his slow movements and signs of pain. The officers expressed serious concern about the ongoing suffering of Taz, who had endured months of pain and discomfort.

Tragically, despite efforts to improve his quality of life, Taz’s condition deteriorated. After several months in the care of the SPCA, it became clear that his suffering was unmanageable. Veterinary scans confirmed the severity of his hip dysplasia, which was untreatable. Given his declining health and ongoing pain, the decision was made to euthanize Taz on welfare grounds. His death marked a sad end to a life marred by neglect and cruelty, and the authorities emphasized that Bieniek should be held accountable for the suffering he caused.

Inspector Boyce expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, thanking witnesses for their crucial role in bringing the case to light. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and swift action in protecting vulnerable animals from abuse. The court’s ruling included a five-year disqualification order for Bieniek, along with a four-month restriction liberty order, serving as a stern reminder of the consequences of animal cruelty in Glasgow.