GARY STOCKFORD'S HORRIFIC DOG BEATING IN ERITH AND DARTFORD TOWN CENTRE

In a disturbing incident that shocked the local community, Gary Charles Stockford, born on August 24, 1973, was involved in a brutal attack on a dog in Dartford town centre, near the Orchard Theatre, in July 2015. Stockford, who was previously residing in Swanscombe, Kent, and later moved to Kale Road, Erith, with the postcode DA18 4BJ, subjected his loyal pet, Benny, to a relentless 45-minute assault that left witnesses appalled and prompted immediate police intervention.

According to reports, the attack was characterized by repeated kicks and punches delivered by Stockford, who showed no mercy during the prolonged assault. Despite the violence, Benny, the dog, demonstrated remarkable loyalty and obedience, continuously returning to his owner’s side whenever called. Each time Benny approached, he was met with further violence, a sight that distressed onlookers deeply.

Several witnesses who observed the incident near the Orchard Theatre took swift action by contacting the police, alarmed by the cruelty unfolding before their eyes. Their testimonies played a crucial role in the subsequent legal proceedings. RSPCA inspector Vikki Dawe described the scene, stating, “Witnesses saw Benny being repeatedly hit and kicked, in vicious bursts, over a period of about 45 minutes. They said the poor dog kept coming back to the defendant when he was called, only to be attacked all over again. They were so distressed by what they saw they called us.”

Inspector Dawe emphasized the severity of the cruelty, condemning such violence towards animals. She added, “It is totally unacceptable to be violent in this way towards an animal. Benny showed clear signs of submission and distress.” The bravery of the witnesses who came forward was also acknowledged, as their willingness to testify helped ensure that Stockford faced justice.

Following the investigation, Gary Stockford was sentenced to a 12-week custodial sentence, which was suspended for 24 months. Additionally, he was ordered to pay a total of £1,244 in costs and charges. His license to keep animals was revoked for five years, a ban that expired in December 2020. This case highlights the importance of community vigilance and the ongoing efforts of animal welfare organizations to combat cruelty in the region of Erith and Dartford.