A VIOLENT Barrow man convicted of attacking a Staffie puppy in the street in a callous assault is behind bars after being found by police.

A warrant was issued for the arrest of Michael Edward Rogers after he failed to attend Furness Magistrates’ Court on Monday to stand trial in a prosecution case brought by the RSPCA.

The 41-year-old, of of Greengate Street, Barrow, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a Staffordshire bull terrier-type puppy called Diesel by subjecting him to physical violence and blunt force trauma.

The incident took place in the vicinity of Church Street in April.

Rogers was sentenced to 16 weeks in jail and disqualified from keeping any animals for life. He was also ordered to pay £750 in costs and a £115 victim surcharge.

RSPCA inspector Will Lamping said: “This was a violent attack on a defenceless animal in the middle of the street in broad daylight.

“Witnesses described the puppy being repeatedly kicked in the stomach and legs before being hoisted over Rogers’ shoulder by the lead he was attached to.

“Diesel suffered life-changing injuries as a result of the incident, particularly to one of his legs which was so badly damaged that it’ll never fully recover.”

A deprivation order was placed on the dog, who has been in foster care since being seized by police in April, and he will now be able to be rehomed by the RSPCA.

Anyone who thinks they might be able to offer him a permanent home can contact RSPCA Westmorland Branch on 01539 736307.

Inspector Lamping said: “I am so happy that Diesel will now get a second chance at happiness. No animal should ever be subjected to the kind of behaviour this poor puppy was, and the injuries he sustained will affect him for the rest of his life. This was clearly a very serious case and the sentence reflects that.”

This morning, police confirmed Rogers had been located and imprisoned.