More arrests in dog killing probe

A further four men have been arrested after a disabled woman was attacked in her home as she confronted a gang who killed her pet dog in Liverpool.

The 38-year-old found her Yorkshire terrier, Willow, dead after earlier letting it out in her garden at Snowberry Road, Yewtree, on Sunday.

She found the dog's body with lacerations. Four men then forced their way into her home and attacked her.

The men arrested, two aged 21, one aged 19 and a 24-year-old are in custody.

Dog's death

They are being held on suspicion of assault and cruelty to animals.

A 13-year-old boy arrested on Monday, also on suspicion of assault and cruelty to animals, is still being held by detectives.

Meanwhile an 18-year-old man who was arrested has been bailed pending further inquiries.

The victim, who has a physical disability, was taken to hospital by ambulance for treatment to her injuries and later released.

Merseyside Police have stepped up patrols in the area and are looking at CCTV footage from the area.

A post-mortem examination is due to take place to establish the cause of the dog's death.

The offenders are all described as white and were wearing dark-coloured clothing with their faces covered.