A Prestwick man has been sentenced after subjecting his dog to a horrific, prolonged episode of physical and mental abuse, captured on video and described as one of the worst cases of cruelty seen by the Scottish SPCA in over a decade.
Daniel Murphy, of Prestwick, appeared at Ayr Sheriff Court on Friday, 15 August, and was sentenced to 9 months imprisonment effective immediately. He was also given a lifetime ban on keeping animals, with no appeal available for 10 years, after previously pleading guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to his one-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Buster.
Murphy is a repeat offender, having been convicted in 2018 for repeatedly kicking a puppy in the street and causing injury. On that occasion, he received 3 months imprisonment and a five-year disqualification order from owning, possessing or being responsible for dogs.
Yelping and screaming in distress
The latest abuse came to light following multiple reports of concern, including a call from a member of the public who heard a dog yelping and screaming in distress. Buster was presented to a veterinary practice with severe swelling to his head and face. Murphy falsely claimed he had accidentally kicked the dog, and later that Buster had walked into a parked car.
However, disturbing video footage later obtained revealed the true extent of the abuse. Over a three-hour period, Murphy was seen:
- Beating Buster’s face and head with the flat of an iron.
- Throwing filled 2-litre bottles at Buster and poring unidentified liquid over his face and body on several occasions.
- Dragging, lifting, and throwing Buster by his legs and tail.
- Subjecting him to sustained verbal abuse and terror.
Clear indicators this was not the first instance of violence
In total, Buster was struck 71 times with extreme force. The footage showed the dog in visible fear and distress, exhibiting behaviours of submission and resignation—clear indicators this was not the first instance of violence.
Scottish SPCA inspector Caitlin Rea involved in the investigation said: “This case is truly horrific. It is without question one of the worst I have encountered with the Society due to the sustained and brutal nature of the abuse.
“Buster endured hours of torment at the hands of someone who should have cared for him. The physical injuries were severe, including head trauma, swelling, and a historical leg fracture, but the emotional trauma was just as profound.
“Thanks to the bravery of the individuals who reported this, and the evidence captured, we were able to ensure Buster’s suffering ended and justice was sought.”
Since been adopted and is now thriving.
After receiving emergency veterinary care, Buster was taken into the care of the Scottish SPCA. He has since been adopted and is now thriving.
Inspector Rea added: “Buster is now living a wonderful life hillwalking and travelling the country in a camper van. He finally has the peaceful and loving life he deserves.”
The Scottish SPCA is calling for a national animal offenders register to be built into existing intelligence systems to support monitoring of individuals convicted of animal cruelty — particularly those banned from owning animals — and flag repeat offenders like Murphy. Importantly, it would also help address the well-established link between those who harm animals and those who go on to harm humans. The charity continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cruelty.
If anyone is concerned about an animal’s welfare, they are encouraged to call the charity’s confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 99
