GRZEGORZ BIENIEK'S CRUELTY IN GLASGOW: DOG ABUSE SHOCKS COMMUNITY

In a disturbing case that has shocked residents of Glasgow, Grzegorz Bieniek, a Polish national residing on Elvan Street in the Shettleston area, has been found guilty of severe animal cruelty involving a 13-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier named Taz. The incident, which took place in October 2023, involved repeated acts of violence against the elderly dog, including punching, kicking, and other forms of physical abuse that caused significant distress and suffering.

According to reports from Scottish SPCA Inspector Boyce, witnesses observed Bieniek on a street in Glasgow repeatedly punching Taz on the body with a closed fist. The witnesses, alarmed by the brutality, saw Bieniek lift the dog by the lead attached to his collar, suspending him in the air. During this act, Taz's front paws were raised off the ground, and he was swinging, clearly struggling to regain his footing. The witnesses promptly contacted the Scottish SPCA animal helpline to report the incident, prompting immediate action from the animal welfare organization.

When inspectors arrived at Bieniek’s residence, he claimed that the dog, named Taz, was 13 years old and had been in his care for four months. The inspectors observed Taz emerging from the property—a dog with a blue coat and a white chest—showing signs of age-related stiffness and slow movement, likely due to arthritis. Despite his age, Taz appeared to be in good body condition, with no visible injuries or wounds at the time of inspection. However, his body language was indicative of fear and distress; he had his tail tucked between his legs and was visibly shaking when Bieniek spoke, signs that suggested he was feeling threatened or uncomfortable.

During questioning, Bieniek denied hitting the dog, stating, “not really,” but his defensive and increasingly aggressive attitude raised concerns about his honesty and the welfare of Taz. Recognizing the potential danger and the dog's evident distress, the inspectors contacted Police Scotland to assist in seizing Taz for his safety. Due to stiffness in his hips, the dog had difficulty descending stairs, and he had to be carried down to safety.

The veterinary examination of Taz revealed no immediate injuries from the abuse, but his age and health issues painted a grim picture. The dog was suffering from severe and worsening arthritis, with scans confirming a diagnosis of untreatable severe hip dysplasia that was deteriorating. These health problems had caused him significant pain over the past months. Sadly, after a thorough assessment, Taz was euthanized on welfare grounds, ending his suffering. The Scottish SPCA expressed their relief at the successful intervention but also their disappointment that the dog endured such cruelty for the last four months of his life.

Inspector Boyce emphasized the importance of community vigilance in protecting vulnerable animals, thanking witnesses for their crucial role in bringing the case to light. The organization highlighted that Taz’s body language and Bieniek’s defensive behavior raised serious concerns about ongoing abuse, which was confirmed by the veterinary findings.

In sentencing, Bieniek received a four-month tagging order and a five-year ban on owning dogs, which will expire in February 2030. The case underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and swift action to prevent animal cruelty in Glasgow and beyond, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.