Prosecutors in Macomb County say a St. Clair Shores man violently attacked his own dog, lifting it by the leash, strangling it and slamming it onto the ground before kicking it several times. The dog, a pet named Steel, survived and did not suffer permanent injuries, according to officials.
The owner, 28-year-old Michael Sikorski, was arraigned today on a felony charge of third-degree animal torture. A judge set his bond at $25,000.
Prosecutors' account
According to prosecutors, Sikorski allegedly hoisted Steel into the air by the leash, choking the dog, then slammed the animal onto the pavement and kicked it multiple times. Those allegations, along with details of Sikorski's arrest, were reported by The Detroit News.
Court action and possible penalties
Sikorski was arraigned in the 40th District Court in St. Clair Shores. Court records did not list an attorney for him, and the judge set bond at $25,000. His next court date is scheduled for March 24.
In a statement to The Detroit News, Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido called out the conduct described in the case, saying, acts of cruelty toward pets are not minor offenses; they are serious violations of the law and of our shared moral responsibility.
Under Michigan law, a conviction for killing or torturing an animal in the third degree can bring a prison sentence of up to four years, according to Michigan statute.
Local trend
The case lands as Macomb County officials are already dealing with a string of recent animal cruelty prosecutions. Earlier this month, prosecutors charged a Sterling Heights man after doorbell-camera footage appeared to show someone hitting a dog, as reported by FOX 2 Detroit. The prosecutor's office has also highlighted additional cases in public statements; see the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office for an example.
Sikorski remains free on bond and is scheduled to return to court on March 24. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. This story will be updated as new court filings or official statements are released.
