STEPHEN PEVELLER CRUELLY MURDERS PET DOG IN ARTHUR'S HILL AND SUNDERLAND RIVER

Stephen Peveller, a resident of Longley Street in Newcastle upon Tyne, has been convicted of a heinous act of animal cruelty that culminated in the tragic death of his elderly pet dog. The incident, which took place in Sunderland, was captured in disturbing CCTV footage, revealing the callousness with which Peveller treated his 12-year-old Pomeranian.

On the morning of December 17, 2022, at approximately 7:40 am, a Sunderland Council worker observed Peveller in the icy conditions at Panns Bank, situated along the River Wear. The footage showed Peveller engaging in abusive behavior towards his small dog. According to Penny Hall, the prosecuting attorney, Peveller was seen dragging the dog by its neck and then forcefully throwing it towards the railings that lined a pathway adjacent to the river. The railings served as a barrier, with a significant drop into the river beyond.

The dog struck the railings and fell onto its back, frantically attempting to regain its footing. Despite the animal's distress and visible injuries, Peveller appeared indifferent. He tried to help the dog stand, which it managed to do temporarily, but then he dragged it again. Subsequently, he lifted the injured animal over the railings, positioning it on the edge of the pathway above the river. Without hesitation, Peveller pushed the dog off the edge, and the animal disappeared from sight, clearly falling into the icy waters below.

After the act, Peveller looked over the railings into the river before walking away from the scene. The council worker, witnessing the distressing scene, contacted the police. When questioned, Peveller claimed that the dog had fallen into the river and expressed concern about the incident. However, police investigations confirmed that the Pomeranian was found dead in the river, establishing the tragic outcome of his actions.

During the court proceedings at Newcastle Crown Court, Recorder Mark Giuliani condemned Peveller’s behavior, stating, “He killed the dog through his actions. He threw it against the railings, injuring it, and then threw the injured dog into the river. It was sadistic behavior. He dragged the dog, which looked to him for support, and then callously pushed it into the cold water.”

The court heard that Peveller had previously sought to keep the dog as an emotional support animal, even attempting to do so in a hotel where pets were not permitted. Despite the dog’s injuries, it continued to look to him for comfort, a testament to their bond. Yet, instead of aiding the distressed animal, Peveller callously lifted it over the railings and pushed it into the river, resulting in its death.

In sentencing, Judge Giuliani imposed a 27-month prison term on Peveller. He also issued a lifelong ban on owning or keeping animals, emphasizing the severity of the crime. The judge described Peveller’s actions as wicked and devoid of compassion, highlighting the cruelty inflicted upon a vulnerable animal that had relied on him for care and support.

Jennifer Coxon, representing Peveller, acknowledged the gravity of the incident, noting that Peveller had no recollection of the act due to limited intellectual functioning and vulnerability. She emphasized that there was little mitigation for his behavior, which was described as a horrific and unforgivable act against his own pet dog.