Man charged with murder after man found dead at home in 'dognapping'
A man has been charged with murder after Donald Patience, 45, was found dead at a house in Bury following reports of 'dognapping'.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) think that Patience was targeted deliberately as his home in Radcliffe, Manchester after he was found dead at the scene on Tuesday (22 August).
His white labradoodle, Layla, had also been stolen.
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Ian Connell, 39, of Bolton, will appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Saturday.
Two other men, aged 27 and 41, were arrested on suspicion of murder but have been bailed pending further inquiries.
GMP said Patience 'had been dead for several days' and that his cause of death is still being investigated.
Patience has been described as 'a much-loved son, brother and father' who 'will be sorely missed by many'.
The dog owner's home was cornered off on Friday and forensic officers were coming in and out of the property.
GMP said the dog is currently being looked after.
Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Smith of GMP’s Major Incident Team said: "First, as a force, we would like to pass on our condolences to Donald's loved ones at this extremely distressing time, we are doing all we can to get the answers they deserve and find out what has happened.
“Since we were made aware of this incident earlier this week our investigation has been swift and precise, with three arrested because of our enquiries with one at the scene at the time of the suspected burglary.
“I would like to reassure the local public, as I understand there will be alarm when finding out about this, but we are confident it is a targeted attack.
“We now want to appeal to the local community for any eyewitness accounts or footage of any activity that we may be able to link to this investigation.
“We are also looking for people who may know Donald, have seen him walking his beloved white labradoodle in the local area or have any knowledge of any activity at or near his address, which is an end terrace on Ainsworth Road, since Friday 18 August 2023.
“It is crucial we have as much detail as possible to help piece together what has happened in this tragic incident where someone has sadly lost their life.
“We are keeping all available lines of enquiry open but no matter how small, your piece of information may be that crucial bit of evidence we need that can help us with this investigation.”
If anyone has any information or specific detail regarding the incident or Donald, they are asked to contact GMP’s Major Incident Team direct on 0161 856 3635 or 101 quoting incident number 1139 of 22/08/2023 or via the independent charity - Crimestoppers - on 0800 555 111.
Information can also be uploaded to GMP's Major Incident Public Portal - https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP23N11-PO1
Anish Vij