CARL ATHEY FROME DOG KILLER SENTENCED TO 20 WEEKS IN PRISON

Carl Steven Athey, a resident of Dorset Close in Frome, was handed a prison sentence of 20 weeks after being found guilty of severe animal cruelty involving the death of a four-year-old border collie named Gracie. The incident has sparked widespread concern and outrage within the local community and animal welfare circles alike.

According to court records and investigations, Athey was responsible for inflicting fatal injuries on Gracie through a series of violent acts. The dog, which belonged to Athey’s partner, Robyn Nicole Garman, was subjected to brutal physical abuse that ultimately led to her tragic demise. Despite the conviction, Garman has publicly stood by Athey, expressing her support amidst the controversy.

Athey, who also owns two Jack Russell terriers named Ruby and Chloe, was charged with two counts of causing physical harm to Gracie. The injuries sustained by the dog were so severe that she was taken to veterinary clinics in an unresponsive and critically injured state. Veterinarians made the decision to euthanize Gracie after examining her and discovering multiple injuries consistent with deliberate violence.

The post-mortem examination revealed a disturbing pattern of trauma, including three fractured ribs, liver damage indicative of a kick, blunt force trauma to the head, and signs of strangulation around her neck. These findings confirmed the severity and brutality of the attacks inflicted upon her.

During police interviews, Athey denied any responsibility for Gracie’s injuries. He claimed that he had tripped while holding a shopping bag on the day of the incident, a statement that was met with skepticism given the extent of the injuries. He also admitted to being the only person present in the household at the time of the injuries, but failed to provide a plausible explanation for the dog's condition.

The RSPCA, which conducted the investigation, expressed their condemnation of the cruelty involved. Inspector Miranda Albinson stated, “This saddening case involved a defenseless dog who lost her life because of the series of serious injuries caused by Athey. The veterinary reports and the post mortem revealed deliberate ill-treatment which tragically led to her death. There is never an excuse for harming an animal or for failing to treat an animal with the kindness and respect they deserve.”

In addition to the prison sentence, Athey was ordered to pay £865 in costs and charges. The court also issued a deprivation order for his other dogs, Ruby and Chloe, and imposed a lifetime ban on him keeping any animals in the future.

Following the sentencing, several friends and acquaintances of Athey have come forward to defend him, claiming that he is innocent. Some have suggested that his partner, Robyn Garman, may be involved in the circumstances surrounding Gracie’s death, and there are allegations that other animals in the household, shared by Garman and her seven-year-old son, have also suffered harm. There are even claims that Gracie might have been harmed by the child, a suggestion Garman has publicly addressed, stating, “We may never know the truth, but if the allegations about a child being to blame for Gracie’s death are true then that is extremely concerning and there absolutely must be intervention by social services.”

As the investigation continues and the community grapples with the tragic loss of Gracie, the case remains a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the need for accountability in cases of cruelty.