DECLAN MILNE FROM PILTON SCOTLAND SENTENCED FOR BRUTAL ATTACK ON LABRADOR IN EDINBURGH

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Declan Milne, born on December 16, 1999, and residing at 129 Crewe Crescent in Pilton, Edinburgh, was found guilty of inflicting severe injuries on a four-year-old black Labrador named Max. The incident took place on July 22, 2021, and involved a brutal assault that left the dog with multiple wounds across his body.

Milne used a pair of nail scissors belonging to his partner to carry out the attack. According to reports, he struck Max on the head, cheek, and thighs, stabbing him a total of 14 times. The attack was described as 'appalling' by authorities and has raised serious concerns about animal cruelty in the area.

At the time of the assault, Max was in the care of Milne’s girlfriend, as the dog’s owners, who are the parents of the accused’s partner, were away on a break. The girlfriend discovered Max cowering in fear, with faeces scattered on the floor and on his tail, indicating the level of distress and pain he was experiencing. When questioned, Milne initially denied any involvement, but the situation changed when the girlfriend noticed that a pair of nail scissors was missing from her set. She also observed what appeared to be black dog hair on the scissors, raising suspicions.

The incident prompted immediate action from animal welfare authorities. Scottish SPCA inspector Fiona Thorburn was alerted after a veterinarian who treated Max expressed concern over the numerous injuries he sustained. The vet recognized that the wounds were non-accidental and had serious concerns for Max’s well-being, leading to the involvement of the animal helpline.

Forensic analysis of the scissors revealed dog blood and DNA, confirming their connection to the attack. Consequently, Milne was charged under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006, specifically under Section 19 1 (a) and (b), for causing Max unnecessary suffering through repeated stabbing with nail scissors.

Inspector Thorburn commented on the case, stating, “After Milne’s girlfriend discovered Max with the fresh injuries, she immediately phoned her family, who returned from their weekend away. The family was incredibly concerned and took Max straight to the vet, where he received prompt treatment for his wounds.”

She further added, “This has been an incredibly distressing time for Max and his owners. The family trusted Milne to look after their pet, but unbeknownst to them, he caused Max significant stress and pain. The suffering was not only physical but also mental for the dog.”

Thorburn detailed the nature of Max’s injuries, noting puncture wounds on his head, cheek, thighs, and muzzle. The vet confirmed that these injuries resulted from repeated trauma with a sharp object. A second veterinary opinion reinforced the conclusion that Max’s injuries were the result of deliberate violence, leaving no reasonable doubt about the cruelty involved.

Milne’s guilty plea was a relief to animal welfare advocates, who expressed their satisfaction that justice was served. Inspector Thorburn suggested that this was not the first time Max had suffered at Milne’s hands, implying a pattern of cruelty. Fortunately, Milne was caught before further harm could be inflicted.

Max’s recovery was described as positive, aided by the loving care of his family. The court proceedings included a statement from the Sheriff, who expressed his disgust, stating he was “nauseated by the cruelty” shown towards Max.

As part of the sentencing, Milne received a four-month restriction of liberty order, a 200-hour community payback order, and a ten-year ban on owning animals. The authorities emphasized that these measures are crucial to prevent any future incidents of animal cruelty involving Milne.

Thanks were also extended to the Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) for conducting the DNA testing that played a vital role in securing the conviction. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of Scottish animal welfare agencies to combat cruelty and protect vulnerable animals in Edinburgh and beyond.