By: Nick Powers | Fraser-Clinton Chronicle | Published September 11, 2024
MOUNT CLEMENS — A dog named Buddy died following a shooting on Aug. 15.
Andrae Maurice Jones, 43, allegedly shot and killed his neighbor’s dog when it was too close to Jones’ property line, according to a press release from the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office.
Jones was arraigned on Sept. 3 in Clinton Township 41B District Court, where Magistrate Ryan Zemke set bond at $20,000 cash or surety. If released, Jones was ordered to have no contact with the dog’s owners and to not possess any firearms or ammunition. A probable cause hearing was set for Sept.16 before District Court Judge Jacob Femminineo Jr.
Jones was charged with killing/torturing an animal in the third degree, which is a four-year felony. He faces a felony weapons charge, a two-year mandatory felony; and was charged with careless discharge of a firearm, a one-year misdemeanor. Additionally, he faces a one-year misdemeanor charge for malicious destruction of property over $200 but less than $1,000.
“Under Michigan law, intentionally killing a dog is a four-year felony,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido is quoted as saying in a press release. “The consequences of the defendant’s actions extend beyond just legal repercussions. The family is now grieving the loss of a beloved family member. We will ensure the defendant faces the consequences of his alleged actions.”
Jones was appointed an attorney for the arraignment, according to court records. At press time, he had no attorney listed.