MARTIN MANSLEY AND DANIEL GARDNER SENTENCED FOR ARSON THAT KILLED PET IN ASHTON-ON-RIBBLE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Ashton-on-Ribble, two individuals, Martin Mansley and Daniel Gardner, were convicted and sentenced for their involvement in a malicious arson attack that resulted in the tragic death of a beloved family dog. The incident, which took place on the night of September 13, 2020, has left a lasting impact on the local residents and highlights the severity of such reckless crimes.

According to reports, police officers responded to a call around 11:30 pm that evening, arriving at an address on Sowerby Road, near Sowerby, where they discovered a deliberately set fire at the front of the property. The blaze was intense, consuming a large dog pen that housed a 10-year-old collie cross named Patch. The fire was determined to be arson, intentionally ignited by the perpetrators, who had no regard for the safety of the animals or residents.

During the chaos, a brave neighbor managed to open the kennel door, allowing the injured dog to escape the flames. Despite this rescue, Patch was severely burned on one side of his body, with injuries including a damaged eye, smoke inhalation, and pneumonia. The dog was rushed to a veterinary clinic, but due to the extent of his injuries, he could not be saved and was euthanized a few days later. The trauma inflicted on Patch's family was profound, as they mourned the loss of their cherished pet.

Adding to the distress, the family experienced a second act of arson just one night after the initial attack. A bottle filled with petrol was thrown at their house, but fortunately, it failed to ignite, and no one was harmed. These acts of violence demonstrated a reckless disregard for human and animal life, further escalating the severity of the case.

Martin Mansley, born around 1970 and residing on Preesall Close, Preston PR2 1NU, and Daniel Gardner, born circa 1978 of Starrgate Drive, Preston PR2 1NA, faced charges related to arson. Mansley admitted to two counts of reckless arson following a week-long trial, while Gardner was found guilty of reckless arson and attempted reckless arson. It is important to note that neither was charged with animal cruelty specifically, but their actions led to the devastating death of Patch.

Detective Constable Mark Ryan expressed his sentiments on the case, stating, “These were targeted and dangerous crimes which resulted in the death of a much loved family pet. The injuries suffered by the dog have caused a significant amount of trauma to the family, and I thank them for their bravery in sharing their story in court. The offenders’ reckless behavior, including the attempt to set fire to the house with the family inside, underscores the seriousness of these crimes. I hope this sentencing serves as a warning that such irresponsible actions will be met with strict prosecution.”

In sentencing, Mansley received a term of 11 years in prison, with an extended five-year license period upon release. Gardner was sentenced to 8 years and 6 months behind bars. The case has garnered significant attention in the Lancashire area, emphasizing the importance of accountability for such reckless and destructive acts.