Man jailed for killing partner's dog in violent row

Derek Campbell has been jailed for killing his girlfriend's pet Chihuahua in a "despicable act of domestic violence", police said

A man who killed his partner's "much-loved" dog after hurling it at a door during a violent row has been jailed.

Derek Campbell, of Marlpit Lane, Norwich, grabbed the woman's pet Chihuahua, called Snowy, from her arms and threw him against the back door of a friend's house in the city, police said.

It followed a row where Campbell smashed a full bottle of wine over his partner's head and repeatedly punched her in the face, they added.

The 46-year-old was sentenced on Tuesday at Norwich Crown Court to two years and eight months in prison for causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and assault by beating.

Campbell has also been banned from keeping animals for 10 years.

The pair had been staying together on 2 February when Campbell launched the attack, police said.

Det Con Amiee Bickel, from Norfolk Police, said: "This was a despicable act of domestic violence towards the victim and cruelty towards a defenceless animal and much-loved pet.

"Campbell's actions have had a devastating impact on the victim, who loved Snowy and regarded him as her world.

"Targeting her through her dog is a truly horrible and spiteful act, and I hope the victim will find some justice in this sentence for both her and Snowy."