DETROIT (WWJ) - Michigan's Attorney General along with the Michigan Humane are cracking down on animal abusers and dog fighting rings, Dana Nessel announced on Thursday.
According to a prepared statement, the partnership between the Department of Attorney General and Michigan Humane in Detroit aims to investigate and prosecute crimes against animals.
The Department said going after perpetrators of "large-scale, multi-jurisdictional, well-organized fighting rings and similar operations require[s] exceptional resources for investigation and prosecution."
The Attorney General's office will offer support and resources to allow the humane society and their agents to go after cases of animal abuse.
“I know most Michiganders think of their pets as family members and subjecting those family members to abuse is incomprehensible,” said Nessel. “Animal abuse is cruel and sadistic. It is also a crime that is often associated with other serious criminal activity, including domestic violence, illegal possession of firearms, illegal gambling, drug possession and large-scale animal abuse and fighting rings. I am proud to partner with Michigan Humane to prosecute these offenders.”
The Attorney General and Michigan Humane announced charges against Kevin Lewis Warren, 52, of River Rouge, who is accused of running an organized dog fighting ring.
Warren is said to have used social media accounts to post videos and pictures of animals for dog fights, and to communicate about breeding, selling, and fighting dogs.
Warren has been arraigned on the following charges:
• Three counts of animal fighting, a four-year-felony and/or $5,000-$50,000 and/or 500-1,000 hours of community service
• One count of possessing fighting animals/equipment, a four-year-felony and/or $1,000-$5,000 and/or 250-500 hours of community service
Officials said each charge also carries with it a prohibition on possessing or owning an animal for five years.
“Animal cruelty isn’t an animal issue. It is a human issue. The partnership between Michigan Humane and the Michigan Attorney General’s Office will strengthen our ability to address animal cruelty towards creating healthier and safer communities for everyone,” said Michigan Humane President and CEO Matt Pepper.
Michigan Humane has joined Nessel's office before to raise awareness about online puppy scams during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Warren is due back in court on Oct. 25 at 9 a.m., officials added.