WARNING: This article contains graphic images
A MAN says Torus has ‘absolutely’ ruined his life after he was attacked by his neighbour’s dog.
Adam Guy says that while living on Ackers Lane in Stockton Heath, he warned the housing company that he was going to be attacked by his neighbour’s mixed-breed dog a number of times.
This is because it would ‘come for him’ while on the floor and out of its owner’s arms, he says.
But Mr Guy claims that Torus ignored these warnings, and now he wants both 'justice' and to be compensated.
He was bitten by the dog on May 14 and suffered serious injuries to his upper body and leg.
The owner of the dog, Taia Ryder, who was also a Torus resident at the time, was sentenced for the offence last year.
This was after she was convicted of being the owner of a dangerously out of control dog causing injury.
She received a suspended prison sentence for this along with another offence of bringing a ‘list A’ prohibited article into prison.
The court also made a contingent destruction for the dog, named Milo, on the grounds on that doing so, it would ‘not constitute a danger to public safety’.
Such orders prevent the dog’s destruction, provided that the conditions imposed are met, and these can include muzzling while in public.
(Image: Supplied)
Since the attack, Mr Guy has lost his home and job and now living in a hostel, he says he has had ‘nothing but problems’ with Torus.
“They have taken no responsibility whatsoever,” Mr Guy told the Warrington Guardian.
“They have dragged my case on for three years and now I can’t take it to the small claims court.
“It is an absolute disgrace, they have ruined my life, I have lost everything.”
Responding to these claims, Torus’ housing service director Jan Calland said how Mr Guy’s compensation request was ‘thoroughly considered’.
But the compensation was not honoured as Torus says it is not viable for his personal injuries.
Ms Calland said: "In 2021, Mr Guy sustained injuries leading to criminal proceedings, which concluded in 2023. Following this, Torus initiated legal proceedings against the neighbouring tenant to recover possession of their home.
"Mr Guy's compensation request was thoroughly considered, and he was informed that Torus is not liable for his personal injuries. He was advised to seek legal advice, and we have communicated with his legal advisors, closing the matter.
"A separate compensation offer to Mr Guy was unrelated to this incident and should not be confused with this matter.
"Torus is dedicated to tackling anti-social behaviour, investigating all complaints seriously and taking appropriate actions. We also work with partners in promoting responsible dog ownership and would remind tenants that they can be held accountable for their actions under the law and could end up with a criminal record as a result as well as putting their home at risk.”
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