A man from St. Clair Shores has been charged with a felony after authorities say he violently abused his dog.
According to the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, Michael Sikorski, 28, was arraigned on March 16 on a charge of third-degree animal torture.
Allegations of repeated abuse
Prosecutors allege the incident occurred on March 15, when Sikorski repeatedly assaulted the dog, identified as Steel.
Authorities claim he threw the dog to the ground multiple times, kicked it, and lifted it by its leash in a manner that restricted its breathing before slamming it again.
Condition of the dog
Officials said the dog is not believed to have suffered permanent injuries, though the incident remains under investigation.
Court proceedings and bond
Sikorski appeared before Mark A. Fratarcangeli, who set bond at $25,000 cash or surety, with the option of posting 10%.
He is scheduled to return to court for a probable cause conference on March 24 before Joseph Craigen Oster.
Potential penalties
The charge of third-degree animal torture is a felony that carries a possible sentence of up to four years in prison.
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said authorities take animal cruelty cases seriously and will pursue accountability when pets are harmed.