What started as a narcotics investigation in Warren ended with 20 dogs and four turtles pulled from a home that authorities say was in “deplorable” shape, with several animals needing immediate medical care and a woman now facing felony charges.
According to the Detroit Free Press, deputies served a search warrant last Thursday at a Hobart Avenue home near Nine Mile and Schoenherr roads and found nine adult dogs and 11 nursing puppies crowded into cramped, unsanitary spaces. Macomb County Animal Control took custody of all 24 animals and transported them to the county shelter for medical evaluation.
Woman Arrested, Facing Felony Counts
As reported by ClickOnDetroit, 57-year-old Michelle Reyntiens was arrested at the scene and charged with animal cruelty and possession of a controlled substance less than 25 grams. She is being held at the Macomb County Jail on a $30,000 bond, according to the outlet.
Animals Now Receiving Care
Macomb County Animal Control said staff members and partner veterinarians are providing urgent treatment to the sickest animals and will work with rescue groups to place pets that are healthy enough for new homes. Per Macomb County Animal Control, the division follows a medical-first, no-kill philosophy and regularly coordinates with rescue organizations when large cruelty or neglect cases come in.
Not An Isolated Incident
Authorities and animal welfare advocates say hoarding and neglect cases like this one continue to strain already tight shelter resources across the region. In a similar Macomb County episode, deputies removed 86 cats and a dog from a Mount Clemens home and the prosecutor charged the resident with animal cruelty, WXYZ reported. Local shelters often lean heavily on veterinary donations, foster homes and rescue partners after large-scale seizures.
Prosecutors will review the evidence and determine how to proceed as the criminal case moves through Macomb County courts. Investigators told ClickOnDetroit they initially opened the probe after detectives suspected narcotics activity at the residence, which helped lead to the warrant that uncovered the animals…