LIAM PATTERSON CONVICTED IN DUMFRIES FOR DOG FIGHTING AND BREED BAN VIOLATION

Liam Patterson, born on July 16, 1993, and previously residing on Eastfield Road in Dumfries with the postcode DG1 2EJ, has been convicted of serious animal cruelty offenses related to dog fighting activities. The investigation revealed that Patterson had been actively involved in training and participating in illegal dog fights, a crime that has severe legal repercussions under Scottish law.

Authorities uncovered a disturbing collection of evidence at Patterson’s residence, including videos stored on his personal devices that depicted his dogs engaged in fighting and being trained for such brutal contests. These videos also captured Patterson himself shouting encouragement during the fights, highlighting his direct involvement and enthusiasm for this underground activity. In addition to digital evidence, police found dog fighting paraphernalia, such as weighted collars used to enhance the dogs’ endurance, along with books and other gear associated with the illegal practice.

During the search, officers discovered three dogs at Patterson’s home: two Staffordshire bull terriers named Zeus and Gucci, and an American pit bull terrier called Bubba. All three animals were taken into the care of the Scottish SPCA. Tragically, Bubba, being a banned breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, had to be euthanized due to the risks associated with his breed status. Zeus and Gucci were also examined and found to be in good physical condition despite the circumstances.

An undercover investigator from the Scottish SPCA’s special investigations unit explained that they received intelligence from the League Against Cruel Sports indicating Patterson was actively keeping and training dogs for fighting. The information detailed the presence of fighting equipment, training books, and other related gear at his Dumfries home. The investigation was prompted by concerns over the welfare of the animals involved, leading to the issuance of a search warrant and the subsequent entry into Patterson’s property.

Inside, authorities found multiple videos showing the dogs involved in fighting, with some footage displaying injuries consistent with combat. The videos also included scenes of the dogs being subjected to rigorous training routines typical of dog fighting practices. Messages exchanged between Patterson and an unidentified individual discussed plans to participate in dog fights and the dogs’ fighting capabilities, including their potential to fight to the death. There was also communication about buying and selling American pit bulls, revealing a troubling obsession with these breeds and their use in illegal fighting.

Throughout the investigation, it became evident that Patterson’s fascination with dog fighting and the American pit bull breed was intense and disturbing. His apparent disregard for the animals’ welfare and the violent culture surrounding these fights raised serious concerns among authorities and animal welfare advocates. The Scottish SPCA expressed satisfaction with the court’s sentencing, emphasizing that such penalties serve as a deterrent to others involved in similar illegal activities.

In sentencing, Patterson received a 300-hour community payback order and a 162-day restriction of liberty order. Additionally, he was banned from owning any dogs for a period of 15 years, a ban that will expire in 2034. The Scottish SPCA and other animal protection groups continue to fight against the underground world of dog fighting, which remains difficult to detect and prosecute due to its secretive nature.

Martin Sims, the director of investigations for the League Against Cruel Sports, highlighted the importance of this case, noting that it was their intelligence that contributed significantly to Patterson’s conviction. He called for stronger legislation and harsher sentences in Scotland to effectively combat animal cruelty and prevent future offenses. Sims also pointed out that legislation in England and Wales is progressing to increase maximum custodial sentences for animal cruelty from six months to five years, urging the Scottish Parliament to follow suit and implement similar measures.

As part of his sentence, Liam Patterson is also subject to a 15-year ban on owning dogs, which will conclude in 2034. The Scottish SPCA encourages the public to report any information related to animal fighting or illegal dog activities through their confidential helpline at 03000 999 999. Patterson’s current residence is listed as Marle Street, Castle Douglas, with the postcode DG7 1DN, where he continues to be monitored by authorities in connection with ongoing investigations into animal cruelty and illegal dog fighting activities.