RICHARD BAILEY FROM BANKS INVOLVED IN HORRIFIC ANIMAL ABUSE AND PUBLIC DISTURBANCE IN LIVERPOOL

Richard Bailey, a resident of Sugar Stubbs Lane in Banks, Southport, has been convicted of a disturbing act of animal cruelty and public disorder that took place in Liverpool. Born around 1967, Bailey’s actions on July 7, 2022, have shocked the local community and prompted a serious legal response.

On that day, Bailey was at the Chepstow Castle pub located on County Road in Liverpool, where he was drinking and accompanied by a four-month-old puppy named Shadow. Witnesses reported that Bailey, after consuming several pints, became increasingly agitated and aggressive. As the puppy grew restless, Bailey shouted at him and pulled on his lead with force, indicating signs of intoxication and emotional distress.

The situation escalated when Bailey took the puppy into the pub’s bathroom. Barmaid Winifred O’Neill, who was working that evening, heard the puppy yelping in pain from inside the restroom. Concerned, a customer entered to investigate and saw Bailey holding a metal walking stick above his head while the frightened puppy cowered below. The customer attempted to intervene, pleading with Bailey to stop, but Bailey responded dismissively, telling him, “none of your business,” and continued to strike the dog with the stick.

As chaos unfolded, Bailey’s violent behavior extended beyond the animal. He began swinging the metal stick at other patrons, creating a dangerous and threatening environment. During the altercation, Bailey struck Ms. O’Neill over the head with the stick, leaving her with a small bruise. When she informed him that she was calling the police, Bailey responded with a vulgar remark, saying, “I don’t give a f***.” His aggression did not subside; he continued shouting abuse, throwing punches, and swinging the stick at other customers.

Michelle Dwyer, who knew Bailey and his dog, entered the pub in an attempt to calm him down. However, her efforts were unsuccessful, and Bailey reportedly threatened to burn her house down. Given Bailey’s previous statements about knowing how to build a bomb, Ms. Dwyer expressed serious concern for her safety.

Eventually, members of the public managed to take the puppy away from Bailey, and he left the scene. Winifred O’Neill informed the police that their assistance was no longer needed at that moment. However, shortly afterward, Bailey returned to the pub, shouting, “where is my f***ing dog,” and then grabbing glasses from behind the bar, holding them above his head as if preparing to throw them. His violent outbursts continued as he swung his walking stick at other customers, prompting the pub staff and patrons to intervene and remove him from the premises once again. Police arrived shortly after and took control of the situation.

The puppy, Shadow, was subsequently fostered into a new, safe home, away from Bailey’s influence. During the court proceedings, Bailey’s lawyer highlighted that his client currently resides in a caravan without running water or electricity and suffers from mental health issues, which may have contributed to his behavior.

District Judge Wendy Lloyd addressed Bailey during sentencing, expressing relief that the puppy was now safe. She criticized Bailey’s actions, stating, “You apparently still see yourself as a victim in this. You used a stick on a woman and a dog. You showed no love to this animal, just anger. I am bewildered that anyone who knew you gave you a dog.”

Bailey was sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for 18 months. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £200 in costs, £150 in compensation to each victim, and a surcharge of £154. The court also mandated 30 days of rehabilitation and issued a lifelong ban on owning any animals. Furthermore, Bailey was subject to a restraining order to prevent further contact with the victims and the animal involved in the incident.