Man who killed friend's dog with axe in ‘shocking’ attack spared jail

A man who attacked and killed a woman’s Yorkshire Terrier by smashing it over the head with an axe has been spared jail.

Michael Lingen, 52, who attacked the pet dog belonging to Tania Bassett – a woman he knew – on 28 February, admitted “destroying” the animal in Worcester.

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Lingen, of Northfield Street, Worcester, also admitted causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal by striking it on the head with an axe.

Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court handed him a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months.

Lingen, of Worcester, was also ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work, pay £135 costs and a £122 victim surcharge.

He was also banned from owning or keeping all animals for life, as well as being involved in any arrangement in which he could control or influence their care.

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Speaking after the case on Monday an RSPCA spokeswoman described the case as “really shocking.”

She added: "I would encourage anyone who has concerns about the welfare of any animal to contact us, or the police to investigate.”