Man charged with murder of dad found dead after reports of 'dog-napping'

A man has been charged with murder after a dad was found dead inside a house in Bury by police who were called to reports of a dog-napping.

Ian Gary Connell, 39, will appear in court today over the death of Donald 'Prentice' Patience, 45, whose body was discovered at around 10.30am on Tuesday 22 August.

Police previously said they had been called to Mr Patience's house on Ainsworth Road in Radcliffe to reports of a burglary in progress with a dog being taken, when they made the grim discovery.

Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features

It has now been established that Mr Patience, originally from Scotland, had been dead for several days, police said. His cause of death remains unknown and an investigation is ongoing.

Two other men, aged 27 and 41, who were also arrested on suspicion of murder have been bailed pending further enquiries.

Donald's family described him as a 'much-loved son, brother, and father' who will be 'sorely missed by many, affectionally known as Prentice.'

Detectives are calling for anyone with information about the case, or Donald to contact them immediately.

Mr Connell, of Duke Street, Bolton, is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court today (August 26).

Greater Manchester Police's Major Incident Team is still investigating the incident and information can be reported via a Major Incident Public Portal - https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP23N11-PO1.

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.