PATRICIA KING OF ORCHARD PARK SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY IN HULL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Orchard Park, Hull, Patricia King, born around 1975 and residing at 24 Palmcourt, was convicted in 2022 of heinous cruelty towards her pet dog. The incident involved the brutal strangulation and multiple stab wounds inflicted upon her small Yorkshire Terrier, known as Pepper, resulting in the animal's tragic death.

According to the prosecution presented by Philip Brown on behalf of the RSPCA, King deliberately subjected Pepper to a series of violent attacks inside her own home. The evidence revealed that King used a kitchen knife to stab the dog nine times in a calculated act of cruelty that caused immense pain and suffering. The injuries included multiple stab wounds to the dog's back and sides, which were inflicted in quick succession, leading to significant internal bleeding. The veterinarian's report confirmed that the stab wounds were inflicted while Pepper was still alive, and the animal was also strangled and suffocated during the attack, further exacerbating its suffering.

Mr. Brown explained that the wounds caused by the knife resulted in severe internal hemorrhaging, and the combination of stabbing and strangulation would have caused the dog to go into shock, hastening its death. The veterinarian's findings indicated that Pepper endured extreme pain and distress during the attack, with the injuries causing a high degree of suffering. The evidence pointed to a deliberate act of cruelty, with the injuries being sustained over a sustained period, leading to the dog's death.

Following the incident, a woman known to King was approached by her, who asked for a cuddle and then revealed that she had killed her dog. The woman, suspecting that King was not being truthful, requested to see the dog. She then made a shocking discovery: Pepper's badly mutilated remains wrapped in an old blanket in a bedroom. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the woman managed to secretly remove Pepper's body from the property and promptly contacted the RSPCA for assistance.

Authorities examined Pepper's remains and confirmed the extent of the injuries, which included nine stab wounds and evidence of strangulation. The case drew significant attention due to the cruelty involved and the apparent intent to cause suffering. During the court proceedings, King's lawyer stated that she had no prior convictions and was considered a low risk for re-offending. The defense also argued that the act was out of character for her, citing her struggles with drug misuse, financial debt, and other personal issues.

However, presiding magistrate Lynda Carmichael emphasized the severity of the crime, stating, “Due to the deliberate and sustained injuries inflicted on the dog, Pepper, which led to a high degree of suffering, we do believe that this matter warrants immediate custody.” Despite a request from King's lawyer for her release pending an appeal, the court denied the application, and she was remanded to New Hall Prison near Wakefield.

In sentencing, Patricia King received a custodial term of 16 weeks in jail. Additionally, she was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £120. The court also imposed an indefinite ban on her from keeping any animals, with a minimum duration of ten years, reflecting the seriousness of her actions and the need to protect future animals from harm.