A troubling case was detailed in Sheffield Crown Court, where a couple admitted to a series of serious offences involving their pet dog. Prosecutors explained that Graham Marshall, 39, encouraged his partner, 33-year-old Paige Reaney, to engage in repeated sexual acts with the dog after the pair became fixated on extreme material. The court heard that Reaney also continued the behaviour on her own, acting under Marshall’s influence and direction.

The situation came to light when police searched the couple’s home during an investigation into Marshall’s suspected possession of child abuse images. When officers examined the electronic devices they seized, they uncovered additional offences committed solely by Marshall, including the creation and possession of indecent images of children. Investigators also found voyeuristic footage recorded with a hidden camera placed in a private bathroom, along with covert pictures of women taken in public places such as gyms and shopping centres.

Reaney pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including causing unnecessary suffering to the dog. Her defence explained that she had been under Marshall’s control since she was a teenager, describing years of manipulation, intimidation, and emotional and physical abuse. They stated she felt pressured and coerced into the behaviour.

Marshall admitted to aiding and encouraging Reaney, failing to protect the dog’s welfare, and several counts involving indecent images and voyeurism. His lawyer said he has since lost his home, work, and family support and is now living rough.

Judge Jeremy Richardson KC described the case as one of the most disturbing he has encountered in his 45-year career, calling the conduct “grotesque” and profoundly shocking.