In 2026, the Offender Database reported that Adam Blackwell, then in his 20s, of no fixed address, was sentenced to two years in prison. On Friday, 30 January 2026, Blackwell appeared at Nottingham Crown Court for the “vicious”, “sadistic”, and “perverted” torture of his 14-year-old XL Bully puppy, Milo.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The investigation established that Blackwell bought the puppy in June 2023 and subjected it to “savage” physical abuse at a property in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire. A neighbour alerted the RSPCA after hearing the dog “screaming” and Blackwell shouting at the animal. Veterinary examinations revealed that Milo had suffered multiple broken ribs, broken legs, and cigarette burns to his face. The prosecution reported that Blackwell had also shut the pup in a cage without bedding, food, or water.
Judge Stuart Rafferty KC emphasised that every day of the dog’s short life was spent in “agony.” The court reported that Blackwell attempted to deceive vets by claiming the injuries were caused by falls from a mattress and a market stall. However, the injuries were so “horrific” and the prognosis so hopeless that the vet determined the only humane option was euthanasia. The judge noted that animals, like children, deserve proper care and that Blackwell had “deliberately” broken the creature’s bones.
Sentence and Statutory Requirements
For his crimes in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, Adam Blackwell was handed:
- Custodial Sentence: Two years in immediate custody.
- Animal Disqualification: Banned from keeping any animal indefinitely.
- Convictions: Admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, possession of a knuckle duster, and possession of cannabis.
- Breach: The sentence included penalties for breaching a previous suspended order for drug supply.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Blackwell is managed by the National Probation Service in Nottinghamshire. His history of “sadistic” violence against a defenceless animal, combined with weapons and drug offences, means his status remains under scrutiny by local authorities.
Authorities state that the “serious” nature of the torture inflicted on Milo demonstrates a “vile” disregard for life. The indefinite ban on keeping animals is a “critical” measure to prevent further “abhorrent” abuse. Any breach of his disqualification order or his licence terms following his release from prison will result in his immediate return to Nottingham Crown Court.
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