JOHN SHACKELL'S BRUTAL DOG ATTACK IN READING SHOCKS COMMUNITY

John Michael Shackell, a known career criminal with a history of alcohol abuse, was involved in a disturbing incident that took place in Reading, which has left the local community deeply unsettled. Born on October 13, 1982, Shackell, who most recently resided at Talbot Court in Reading RG1 6QH, launched a violent assault on a dog belonging to a stranger, an act that was captured on CCTV footage and has since garnered widespread condemnation.

The incident occurred outside the One Stop store located on Fairview Road in Hungerford, a location familiar to many residents. According to reports, Shackell believed he had successfully escaped any repercussions after kicking the dog in a savage and unprovoked attack. However, the CCTV footage revealed the full extent of his violence, contradicting any notion of an attempt to evade justice.

The owner of the dog, Jennifer Riddell, provided a statement describing the aftermath of the attack. She explained that her pet, which was tied to a post at the time, was now visibly frightened of strangers and reluctant to go outside, highlighting the emotional trauma inflicted by Shackell’s actions.

Prosecutor Ms. Riddell detailed the sequence of events: Shackell, then residing on Embrook Way in Calcot, was at the store with his partner, children, and his Staffordshire bull terrier. She stated, “He allowed his own dog to approach the other animal, which was tied to a post. He then pulled his own animal away and kicked the tied-up dog.”

Following this, Shackell reportedly entered the store, where he began shouting and swearing in a state of agitation before leaving his family behind and rushing back outside. Once outside, he continued his violent behavior by furiously kicking the tied-up dog in the head. Witnesses also reported that Shackell started shouting at a woman who happened to be passing by, further demonstrating his aggressive state of mind.

Police responded swiftly after viewing the CCTV footage, leading to Shackell’s arrest. His criminal record includes previous convictions for assault and theft, which underscores a pattern of violent and unlawful behavior. During police interviews, Shackell admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to the dog by repeatedly kicking it, a confession that confirmed the severity of his actions.

Defense lawyer Ben May described Shackell as a “dog lover” who had lashed out in a “moment of madness” after the dog he owned began to fight with the victim’s animal. May also highlighted Shackell’s struggles with alcoholism, noting that he was currently signed off work due to his dependency issues. The lawyer emphasized that Shackell was actively addressing his alcohol problems and argued that a custodial sentence would hinder his recovery efforts.

A probation officer assessed Shackell’s risk of re-offending and potential harm to others as ‘medium’. She further explained that, due to the medication Shackell was taking for his addiction, he was not suitable for a sentence involving unpaid community work.

In sentencing, the court imposed a 10-month community order, which includes a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement. Shackell was also ordered to pay £145 in costs and charges. Importantly, the court did not impose a ban on him owning animals, despite the severity of the attack.

This incident has shocked many residents of Reading and Hungerford, raising concerns about animal welfare and public safety. The community continues to call for stricter measures to prevent such violent acts from recurring in the future.