Arraignment set for Mich. man in dog cruelty case

MONROE -- An arraignment has been set for Feb. 17 at 8:30 a.m. in Monroe County Circuit Court in the case of the Frenchtown Township man accused of causing the death of his neighbor's dog after it ate needle-laced hot dogs.

Gary Pinchoff, 64, faces up to four years in jail and a $5,000 fine if convicted on the felony charge. Mr. Pinchoff's attorney, William Godfroy of Monroe, waived the pretrial that had been set for Wednesday afternoon. Mr. Pinchoff was released on $5,000 bond after entering a not guilty plea Dec. 8 on a charge of animal cruelty in the death of his neighbor's dog.

Andy Wann of Monroe filed a report with the Michigan State Police's Monroe post after his dog, Jinx -- an 8-year-old, 60-pound black Lab -- swallowed hot dogs laden with needles and had to be euthanized. Mr. Pinchoff and Mr. Wann are longtime neighbors. Trooper Michael Peterson said Mr. Pinchoff told him he put the meat outside for invasive wildlife.

Monroe County Prosecutor William Paul Nichols said he has consulted with both the local humane society and Mr. Wann, and has offered Mr. Pinchoff a plea agreement that includes restitution of $530 for veterinary bills and $500 to purchase another dog.

Mr. Godfroy declined to comment on the offer.