MANISTIQUE — Two people have been arraigned on cruelty to animals charges in Schoolcraft County, according to Manistique Public Safety. The charges stem from an investigation in July involving a variety of animals ranging from dogs to chickens.

Arrest warrants were issued by Schoolcraft County Prosecutor Timothy Noble. On September 21, Shawn Patrick Dupee, 41, of 319 Schoolcraft Avenue, Manistique, was arraigned in the 93rd District Court for a charge of Animals – Abandoning/Cruelty to 10 or more but fewer than 25 Animals. The charge is a felony punishable by up to four years imprisonment, $5,000 fine and up to 500 hours of community service, or any combination of penalties. Bond was set by the court at $5,000 cash with 10% allowed. A preliminary hearing date was set for October 19.

On October 5, Tammy Lynn Munoz, 42, 319 Schoolcraft Avenue, Manistique, was arraigned in the 93rd District Court on a charge of Animals – Abandoning/Cruelty to 10 or more but fewer than 25 Animals. The charge is a felony punishable by up to four years imprisonment, $5,000 fine and up to 500 hours of community service, or any combination of penalties. Bond was set by the court at $10,000 personal recognizance. A preliminary hearing was set for October 20.

On July 8, Manistique Public Safety Officers conducted an investigation of animal cruelty at a residence on Schoolcraft Avenue in Manistique. Officers seized 39 total animals that date, including nine dogs, 12 cats, four bearded dragon lizards, 13 chickens, and a hamster. The animals taken into custody were cared for by the Eva Burrell Animal Shelter in Manistique pending additional investigation and possible criminal charges for the occupants of the residence.

All of the animals seized in this investigation were forfeited by the suspects and have now been adopted out into new homes by the Eva Burrell Animal Shelter. The Manistique Public Safety Department would like to recognize and thank the Eva Burrell Animal Shelter, the Upper Peninsula Veterinary Service, Thompson Veterinary Clinic, The Garlyn Zoo of Naubinway, and other citizens of Manistique for their assistance with this very important investigation, said Manistique Public Safety Director Kenneth C. Golat.