LUKE HAMILTON FROM CORBY AND MANCHESTER SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO GREYHOUND IN CORBY

Luke George Hamilton, born on March 29, 1990, originally from Corby, has been convicted of animal cruelty after a disturbing case involving a greyhound in Corby. In 2020, Hamilton was residing on Hilary Road, Manchester M22 1PW, when he was found responsible for neglecting and starving a defenseless dog, leading to the animal's suffering and eventual death.

The case came to light after concerns were raised by members of the public who were shocked and distressed upon seeing the condition of the greyhound. The RSPCA, acting on these reports, launched an investigation into the dog's welfare. Kevin McCole, the prosecutor representing the RSPCA, detailed the severity of the dog's condition, stating that the animal was so emaciated that her entire ribcage was visible. The neglect was evident enough that the owner was advised to take the dog to a veterinarian for urgent care.

However, the situation worsened when a police community support officer (PCSO) responded to a separate report that the same greyhound had attacked and killed a cat. During the investigation, the officer instructed Hamilton to take the dog to a vet, but he initially claimed he would do so. Despite this, the greyhound was later found collapsed and dying on Viking Way in Corby. The dog was in a critically weakened state, severely emaciated, yet still conscious but unable to move.

The animal was immediately taken to a veterinary clinic, where tests revealed organ failure, and sadly, the decision was made to euthanize her to prevent further suffering. The RSPCA's inquiries led them to trace the dog's previous owner, who had transferred ownership to Hamilton. The former owner was visibly upset upon learning of the dog's condition, even breaking down in tears.

Further investigations by the RSPCA uncovered that Hamilton had initially denied responsibility, falsely claiming that he had given the dog to his brother. The evidence was clear, and Hamilton was brought before Corby magistrates. He was sentenced to eight weeks in prison and received a ban from owning any animals for 20 years, a restriction that will remain in effect until March 2043.

This case highlights the ongoing issues of animal cruelty and neglect, and the importance of vigilant reporting and swift action by authorities to protect vulnerable animals in communities like Corby and beyond.