MARTIN DUNN FROM MELTHAM SHOCKS COMMUNITY WITH CRUELTY TO DOG IN HOLMFIRTH

In a disturbing incident that has shocked residents of Meltham and the surrounding areas, Martin Dunn, a police officer with Greater Manchester Police, was caught on camera physically assaulting a young springer spaniel puppy named Frank. The assault took place on the evening of March 14, 2021, in the garden of Dunn's property located on Albion Gardens, Meltham, within the town of Holmfirth, HD9 5AF.

According to reports, West Yorkshire Police responded swiftly after the incident came to light. Dunn, who was at the time a serving police and firearms officer earning an annual salary of approximately £44,000, was seen losing his temper and punching the five-month-old dog multiple times—specifically three or four blows—leaving the puppy yelping in pain and distress. The attack was captured on security footage, which played a crucial role in the subsequent legal proceedings.

During an earlier hearing, Dunn pleaded guilty to a charge of animal cruelty, acknowledging his misconduct. The incident prompted a veterinary examination of Frank, followed by an assessment by a canine behaviour specialist. The veterinarian initially examined the dog, and the behaviour expert later reported that Frank exhibited signs of extreme fear, especially when shouted at, indicating that he had learned to associate such aggressive behaviour with danger. The specialist emphasized that such repeated punching is entirely inappropriate and constitutes cruelty, not training.

Following the incident, Dunn faced significant professional and legal consequences. A spokeswoman for the Probation Service revealed that Dunn's actions were triggered by frustration after the puppy made a mess. It was also disclosed that Dunn has a history of involvement in the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017 and has been suffering from PTSD, which he was unaware of at the time. He had been referred for treatment through Occupational Health services to address these issues.

In mitigation, Dunn's legal representative, Sarah Barlow, explained that a combination of stress factors contributed to his behaviour that evening. She stated, “In this case there are a number of stress factors that came together on that evening that caused him to behave as he did. He hung his head in shame when he saw the video. It was a complete one-off.” Barlow also highlighted Dunn’s responsibilities as a firearms officer patrolling Manchester Airport, emphasizing that such a role demands constant control and professionalism. She expressed disbelief at his actions, asserting that this was an isolated incident and that Dunn deeply regrets his behaviour.

She further explained that witnessing the Manchester Arena bombing had a profound impact on him, and he often hesitated to seek counselling out of fear it might harm his reputation. Additionally, Dunn was involved in a severe neighbour dispute and was contemplating selling his shared home with his partner, which contributed to his inability to relax both at work and at home. Compounding his stress were ongoing issues related to the custody of his son.

When Dunn was formally charged by West Yorkshire Police, a spokesperson from Greater Manchester Police confirmed that he was placed on restricted duties and that the matter was referred to GMP’s Professional Standards Branch. The legal proceedings culminated in a sentencing hearing, where Dunn received a 12-month community order, including 120 hours of unpaid work—reduced from an initial 180 hours due to his guilty plea. He was also ordered to pay costs and charges totaling £180 and was disqualified from keeping any animals for five years, with the exception of a lizard-type leopard gecko, a restriction set to expire in April 2026.

In May 2023, further developments emerged as Greater Manchester Police announced that Martin Dunn had been dismissed from his position following his criminal conviction. During an independent disciplinary hearing held on May 2, 2023, Dunn admitted to gross misconduct and was dismissed without notice. GMP’s Chief Superintendent Michael Allen, head of the force’s professional standards branch, condemned Dunn’s actions, stating, “The vast majority of police officers and staff fulfil their duties in serving the public to the highest standard and demonstrate exemplary behaviour in their private lives. Having a criminal conviction for animal cruelty makes Dunn wholly unsuitable to continue serving as a police officer, and his cruelty towards Frank the dog is ultimately why he has lost his job.”

This case has sparked widespread outrage within the community, raising questions about accountability and the conduct of law enforcement officers entrusted with public safety. The incident remains a stark reminder of the importance of compassion and professionalism, especially among those sworn to serve and protect.