MICHAEL FRATI FROM CRAIGEND CONVICTED OF BRUTAL DOG KILLING IN GLASGOW'S RUCHAZIE

Michael Frati, a resident of Craigend in the City of Glasgow, has been found guilty of a heinous act of animal cruelty that shocked the local community and drew widespread condemnation. The incident took place on August 5, 2023, at a property located in Ruchazie, a neighborhood in the northeast part of Glasgow. Frati was accused of causing the death of a small chihuahua named Ruby by violently striking her with a hatchet, an act that has been described as both unnecessary and deeply distressing.

During the court proceedings at Glasgow Sheriff Court, Sheriff Patrick Hughes delivered a stern judgment, emphasizing the severity of the crime. Frati was convicted of causing the dog unnecessary suffering, a charge that underscores the cruelty involved in the attack. Additionally, he was found guilty of behaving in a threatening or abusive manner at the same time and place, further aggravating his culpability in this tragic event.

Sheriff Hughes expressed profound sadness over the case, highlighting the close bond between Ruby and her owner, Janet Collins. He remarked, “She played an almost maternal role in your life,” referring to Collins. The sheriff described the incident as “the worst case of animal cruelty I have seen, particularly in a summary court,” indicating the gravity of the offense.

The court heard that Frati was aware or should have been aware that his actions would cause suffering to Ruby. The evidence presented confirmed that he struck the dog on the head with a hatchet, resulting in her death. Sheriff Hughes characterized the attack as an “unprovoked incident,” which added to the emotional distress experienced by Collins, who witnessed the brutal act. The sheriff further noted that Collins was deeply hurt by the sight of her beloved pet being harmed in such a manner.

In his sentencing remarks, Sheriff Hughes expressed concern about Frati’s potential threat to the public, suggesting that this incident marked an escalation in his behavior. The court sentenced Frati to 12 months in custody, with no additional ban or restrictions imposed.

Peter Malone, representing Frati, provided some context during the sentencing hearing. He explained that Collins had been attempting to help Frati with his addiction issues and that he had been living with her at the time of the incident. Despite this, the court’s focus remained on the cruelty inflicted upon Ruby and the need for accountability.

It is also noteworthy that Frati was previously involved in legal issues, having been cleared in 2019 of two attempted murder shootings within a month. The charges against him included shootings at a house in Tollcross and at a residence in Shettleston, but he was ultimately acquitted of these serious allegations. Witnesses such as Robert McCann and Brian McGloin testified in court, describing their own experiences of being shot but being unable to identify the gunman, adding context to Frati’s complex legal history.