PAUL ATKINSON FROM SALTBURN-BY-THE-SEA INVOLVED IN DOG-RELATED INCIDENT AT SKINNINGROVE JETTY

In a disturbing incident that unfolded at the coastal area of Skinningrove, Paul Atkinson, a resident of Westray Street, Carlin How, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, was involved in an act that drew significant concern from witnesses and authorities alike. The events took place on September 30, 2011, when Atkinson, who was reportedly under the influence of alcohol, was seen by a fisherman at the jetty engaging in a reckless act involving his pet dog.

According to court testimonies, Atkinson approached the fisherman and, without warning, threw his terrier named Jess from the jetty into the icy waters of the North Sea. The dog was cast approximately 20 feet into the water, an act that left the fisherman and others nearby in shock. The fisherman, visibly astonished by the sudden action, immediately moved to intervene and assist the distressed animal.

Following the throw, Atkinson himself jumped into the sea in an attempt to rescue Jess. He managed to retrieve her and placed her on a ledge, known as a “H frame,” situated below the jetty. The fisherman advised Atkinson to return and retrieve the dog before the incoming tide made the situation more dangerous. Despite this warning, Atkinson and Jess remained on the ledge, waiting for a lifeboat to arrive and rescue them.

Emergency services, including an RNLI lifeboat, were called to the scene. The lifeboat successfully rescued both Atkinson and Jess, who was reportedly in a state of terror and cowering from the ordeal. Police officers arrived shortly after and took Atkinson into custody. The court heard that Jess was in a distressed condition, and witnesses described her as terrified and cowering during the rescue.

During the court proceedings, Atkinson contested some of the evidence presented. He claimed that he had only dropped Jess from a height of about 7 feet into the water, asserting that his intentions were benign. He explained that he and Jess, who was only four years old, had been seeking to enjoy a swim on a hot day. According to Atkinson, he believed Jess was swimming too far out, prompting him to go into the water to help her. He stated that he exited the water but was then confronted by a fisherman who was swearing at him and urging him to retrieve the dog.

Atkinson further explained that he re-entered the water and that the RNLI was called during this time. He expressed that Jess was extremely important to him, describing her as “his life.” It was revealed that he had rescued Jess when she was just a few weeks old and had previously rescued other dogs as well.

Legal representatives for Atkinson acknowledged that placing Jess into the sea from the jetty was a mistake, but emphasized that he saw her in difficulty and acted out of concern. They highlighted that he stayed with her in the water until help arrived, demonstrating a level of care and attachment.

In sentencing, the court imposed a 12-month community order on Atkinson, which includes nine months of supervision. Additionally, he was ordered to pay costs amounting to £85. The incident has sparked discussions about animal welfare and responsible behavior in coastal areas, especially involving alcohol consumption and the treatment of pets in public spaces.