Dog walker battered pooch in shocking animal cruelty attack
Brighton man caught on camera attacking dog
Luke Cobb, 38, from Avondale Road, Eastbourne, was filmed slamming a dog’s head against a wall outside a Brighton home on 13 November 2023. The horrific footage went viral, sparking outrage and leading to his arrest the same day.
Owner of dog walking business admits guilt
Cobb, who ran a dog walking business and was trusted to care for the dog named Stan, pled guilty to animal cruelty charges on 21 March 2024. His disgusting act betrayed the very trust placed in him by the pet’s owners.
Harsh sentence handed down in court
On Friday 31 May, Brighton Magistrates’ Court ordered Cobb to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and 10 activity days. He must also pay a £114 victim surcharge and £85 in costs. As if that wasn’t enough, Cobb has been banned from owning or controlling any animal for 12 months.
Police and RSPCA slam the cruelty
PC Sam Cooper, lead officer, said: “The video evidence was deeply distressing and showed a betrayal of trust towards Stan. We thank the witnesses whose courage helped bring Cobb to justice. Animal abuse will not be tolerated.”
RSPCA Inspector Tony Woodley added: “We supported Sussex Police during their investigation. Thankfully, Stan has not suffered lasting physical harm. Taking care of animals is a privilege – Cobb’s actions were a serious breach of that trust.”
