26 August 2023 , 21:38
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A dog owner had been dead for several days after a burglary before he was discovered, it has been revealed today.
The body of Donald 'Prentice' Patience, 45, was found at his home in Bury, Greater Manchester, after police were called to reports of a burglary on Tuesday.
It had been reported the dad of three's beloved pet pooch, Layla, was snatched in the same incident.
Mr Patience in the building, and said today it was likely he had been dead for several days.
Ian Gary Connell, 39, has now been charged with Mr Patience's murder.
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He was due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates' Court today. Two other men, aged 27 and 41, have been bailed pending further enquiries, Greater Manchester Police said.
The white designer labradoodle is now being looked after by the relevant authority, said police (prentice.patience/Facebook)The cause of Mr Patience's death is still unknown and will be investigated further. The dog owner, originally from Scotland, was described as "a much-loved son, brother and father" by loved ones. They added "he will be sorely missed by many, affectionately known as Prentice."
The victim’s loved ones are currently being supported by family liaison officers at this difficult time while the dog is being looked after by the relevant authority. Due to the circumstances in which the man was found, a Home Office post-mortem examination has taken place and this has concluded the death was suspicious.
Anyone with information about the incident or Donald is asked to contact GMP’s Major Incident Team on 0161 856 3635 or 101 quoting incident number 1139 of 22/08/2023 or via the independent charity - Crimestoppers - on 0800 555 111.