DETROIT – A Detroit man will stand trial after police said he abused and harassed his ex-girlfriend and tortured her dog, according to Michigan’s Attorney General Dana Nessel.
Julius Holley, 55, will be on trial for the following charges:
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- One count of first-degree home invasion, a 20-year felony and/or $5,000
- One count of first-degree killing/torturing of animals, a 10-year felony and/or $5,000
- One count of larceny in a building, a four-year felony and/or $5,000.00
- One count of stalking, a one-year misdemeanor and/or $1,000.00
According to the attorney general, Holley entered his ex-girlfriend’s home and stole her Yorkshire Terrier and other items from her house.
Officials said Holley sent videos to his ex-girlfriend of him beating and torturing the dog. The dog was found in a bucket next to a house and was rescued by Michigan Humane.
Read: ‘It’s horrific to watch’: Man wanted for allegedly torturing ex-girlfriend’s dog in Detroit
In Michigan, torturing or killing a pet with the intent to cause mental suffering or distress to another person, or exert control over a person, is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
The law, MCL 750.50b(3), was enacted in 2019. It recognizes the connection between animal abuse and domestic violence.
“Law enforcement is all too familiar with the link between domestic violence and animal abuse,” Nessel said. “State law that rightfully acknowledges the relationship between these two crimes provides prosecutors with the tools necessary to hold accountable these violent offenders.”
Holley is scheduled to be arraigned on Dec. 27.
This case was investigated as part of a partnership between the attorney general’s office and Michigan Humane.
Previous coverage: Prosecutors: Detroit man sent ex-girlfriend videos of him torturing her small dog to harass her
Michigan Humane can help if you need a safe place to temporarily house your pet. If you need help or are willing to foster animals, call Michigan Humane at 866-648-6263.