Detroit Dog Owner Charged with Animal Abuse

Published on February 04, 2026

Prosecutor Kym Worthy has charged Darnell Lamar Robinson, 54, of Detroit, in connection with neglecting and abandoning his pet dog in the cold.

On January 30, 2026, at 11:20 a.m., Detroit Police Officers received information about a dog believed to be deceased at a residence in the 19000 block of Eureka Street in Detroit. Upon their arrival, they observed that the emaciated neglected dog was still alive and in need of urgent medical care. Detroit Animal Care and Control and was called to the scene. The dog was transported to APAWS Emergency Veterinary Hospital for treatment for hypothermia, dehydration, and severe emaciation. An investigation by the Detroit Police Department led to the arrest of Defendant Robinson on February 2, 2026.

Darnell Lamar Robinson has been charged with Animals – Killing/Torturing – Second Degree which carries a maximum seven-year penalty, and Animals – Abandoning/Cruelty to One Animal, a 93-day Misdemeanor.*

“The alleged behavior in this case is deplorable. Leaving a dog to starve and freeze in the cold is not only incredibly cruel, it is also a serious crime,” said Prosecutor Kym Worthy.

Defendant Robinson was arraigned this afternoon in 36th District Court and received a $20,000 personal bond. The Probable Cause Conference is scheduled for February 13, 2026, at 8:30 a.m., and the Preliminary Examination is scheduled for February 20, 2026, at 8:45 a.m., before Judge Ronald Giles.

Please request a photograph of the defendant from the Detroit Police Department.

*The charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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