(CBS DETROIT) – A mother, her son and his girlfriend have been charged with killing six dogs after the dogs’ decomposing remains were found in the basement of an Eastpointe rental home.
Corneshia Robinson, 49, her son, Kentrell Dorr, 21, and his girlfriend, India Jones, 21, are charged with third-degree murder and torture of animals, a four-year felony, and abandonment/cruelty to 4- 10 animals. a two-year felony.
Monday afternoon, Eastpointe police responded to a home in the 24000 block of Flower after learning that six American Bullies had been found dead in the basement of the home by the property manager and cleaning crew following an eviction.
When Eastpointe police entered the residence, they were “overwhelmed by a noxious odor” and found the floor covered in dead insects. In the basement, police found “makeshift partitions that divided the basement into sections.”
Animal control officers determined that five puppies and one adult dog had died from possible dehydration and starvation. Officials say all the dogs appear to be extremely malnourished as the food bowls were dry and empty. An additional puppy and adult dog were found in poor health and taken to an animal shelter for treatment. The deceased dogs were taken to Michigan State University for examination.
“This is a horrific case of animal torture, where these individuals showed a complete disregard for life by allegedly starving these dogs. The suffering they have caused is indescribable. Under Michigan law, torturing and killing dogs carries a maximum penalty of up to four years in prison. While no punishment can undo the damage done, we will pursue justice to the fullest extent of the law to ensure that these offenders are held accountable for their actions,” said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido.
Dorr and Jones were arraigned Wednesday and issued $25,000 bonds. Robinson will be arraigned at a later date.
If released, Dorr and Jones will not be allowed to use drugs or alcohol and will not have contact with animals or witnesses to the case.
A probable cause hearing is scheduled for Oct. 16, with a preliminary examination on Oct. 23.
