Accused dog strangler must face court in May
‘‘ THE CHILDREN HAD GROWN UP WITH HIM ALL THEIR LIVES.
MATT WINTERS
A 71-YEAR-OLD Pittsworth man charged on one count of animal cruelty has walked from court.
Rodney Leonard Farrand’s brief mention in Pittsworth Magistrates Court yesterday marked the beginning of court proceedings after an incident in which a dog was killed on Grand St, Pittsworth earlier this year.
In a statement made to The Chronicle last month, Police accused Mr Farrand of having held a neighbour’s dog down on the ground with his hand around its throat before choking the animal to death in front of its carer.
The alleged incident occurred on the footpath outside the accused’s house in the afternoon of January 8.
The family who owned the pet were in court as the proceedings went ahead.
Matt Winters said he, his wife and his children were shocked at the loss of their beloved 13-year-old staffy named Bear.
“The children had grown up with him all their lives,” he said outside the court house.
“We’re all in shock at the moment and we just want answers.”
Mr Winters and his children were on holiday at the time of Bear’s death.
The children’s grandmother was taking care of the dog and had to break the news to the family.
“He was a pretty, sort of overweight, dog,” Mr Winters said.
“A people’s dog. He just liked people really.
“He was always looking for attention and a pat. He was a nice dog.”
The family reiterated they would be at every court proceeding until “this ends”.
Rodney Leonard Farrand was remanded to reappear in Pittsworth Magistrates Court on May 18 by Magistrate Roger Stark.