MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. - A 33-year-old Macomb County man has been charged with first-degree animal torture after prosecutors say he stomped on and killed a woman's kitten.

Marcus Winfrey, of Mount Clemens, was reportedly sleeping on the steps of the First United Methodist Church on Sept. 2 when he awoke agitated. Police say he began swearing at a woman, who was also resting on the steps, before intentionally stomping on the head of her gray and white female kitten, named Asia.

 The allegations in this case of using an innocent animal to hurt another person is cruel and deeply troubling,  said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido in a statement following Winfrey's arraignment.  When offenders are convicted of animal cruelty, they should face meaningful consequences. 

First-degree animal torture carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison. Winfrey is also a habitual offender, prosecutors said, which is an aggravating sentencing factor.

Winfrey's bond was set at $50,000 cash/surety/10% and currently remains in custody at the Macomb County Jail.

#clickondetroit   #CrimeInTheD ®