Scots couple’s vicious row over pet dog sees pair end up in court after claims of violent punch up

Scots Couple’s Court Battle Over Pet Dog Ends in Acquittal

A Scottish couple found themselves in court after a heated dispute over their pet dog led to claims of a violent altercation. The pair, Thomas McCabe and Barry Savage, who had successfully run a horse supplies business together for a decade, saw their personal relationship deteriorate, resulting in legal action. The court case saw McCabe facing three charges of assaulting his husband, Savage, but ultimately being found not guilty.

The couple, known for their award-winning business, had plans to expand their horse supplies firm before their marriage fell apart. The conflict escalated when McCabe allegedly assaulted Savage multiple times at their workplace in Lanarkshire, resulting in a head injury for Savage. Despite the legal proceedings, the Sheriff returned not proven verdicts for all charges against McCabe.

In his testimony, Savage described an incident where McCabe attempted to take their dog, Macy, leading to a physical altercation between them. McCabe, on the other hand, claimed self-defence, stating that Savage was the aggressor. The court also heard about other alleged instances of assault involving the couple within a short period.

The business, 1st Choice Horse and Pet Supplies, which had garnered accolades including the 2021 British Equestrian Trade Association award, was now solely owned by Savage following a severance agreement. Sheriff Colin Dunipace acknowledged the unfortunate nature of the case but emphasized the requirement for proof beyond reasonable doubt to convict.

Despite the legal drama and the end of their personal and professional partnership, the couple’s story serves as a cautionary tale of how disputes, even over something as seemingly trivial as a pet, can escalate to the courtroom.

Insights and Summary:
The case of Thomas McCabe and Barry Savage underscores how personal conflicts can spill over into professional settings, leading to legal consequences. The breakdown of their marriage and business partnership highlights the importance of effective communication and conflict resolution strategies, especially in shared ventures. The court’s decision to acquit McCabe of the assault charges demonstrates the complexities of legal proceedings and the need for concrete evidence to establish guilt beyond reasonable doubt. This case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals navigating both personal and professional relationships, and the potential ramifications when disputes escalate to a legal arena.