Detroit, Michigan – A Detroit man has been charged after authorities say he abandoned three pet dogs, leading to the death of two dogs from freezing and leaving a third severely neglected in harsh winter conditions.
Prosecutors say Martell George, 39, faces multiple animal abuse and cruelty charges following the incident at his residence on the 11780 block of Kennebec.
Discovery of Deceased and Neglected Dogs
On December 18, 2025, at 9:33 a.m., Detroit Animal Care and Control received a report regarding three dogs in distress at George’s home.
When officials arrived, they discovered:
- Two emaciated dogs frozen to death
- One living dog in severe neglect, requiring urgent medical attention
The surviving dog was taken to the Detroit Animal Control Unit for immediate care.
Arrest and Charges
Detroit Police Department officers investigated the scene and arrested Martell George the same day. He has been charged with:
- Three counts of animal abuse, killing/torturing, second degree – maximum seven-year penalty
- Two counts of abandoning, cruelty to one animal resulting in death – one-year misdemeanor
- One count of abandoning, cruelty to one animal – 93-day misdemeanor
Authorities emphasize the severity of the charges, as the deaths were preventable with proper care.
Court Proceedings
George was arraigned on Saturday, December 20, 2025, and released on a $100,000 personal bond.
Upcoming court dates include:
- Probable Cause Conference: December 29, 2025
- Preliminary Examination: January 5, 2026
Community Response and Awareness
The case has drawn attention to animal welfare and the responsibilities of pet ownership, with authorities urging residents to report suspected abuse or neglect. Officials stress that timely intervention can prevent tragic outcomes like this.
Detroit Animal Care and Control reminds the public that leaving pets in freezing temperatures or neglecting their basic needs constitutes a serious criminal offense.
What measures should communities take to prevent animal abuse and neglect? Should penalties for abandoning pets in extreme conditions be harsher?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and help raise awareness about animal welfare.
