A Michigan State Police investigation into alleged animal neglect at a rural property escalated last week when a state trooper was bitten during the execution of a search warrant, authorities said.
Troopers assigned to the Gladstone Post were alerted on Feb. 3 to a complaint alleging neglect involving numerous animals at a property in Cornell Township, located in Delta County. After conducting preliminary checks, investigators sought and obtained a warrant to search the site along County Road 426.
When troopers entered the property on Feb. 4, they reported finding multiple animals dead, including cats, rabbits, pigs and goats. Police also encountered live animals in what they described as poor and unhealthy condition. Fourteen cats, 12 rabbits and one sheep were removed from the property and placed into protective care.
During the search, officers said a woman present at the scene interfered with their work and failed to comply with instructions. According to police, the situation turned physical when she bit one trooper on the wrist. Investigators said she continued to resist while being taken into custody and attempted to bite another trooper before she was restrained.
The woman, identified by state police as 22-year-old Brianna Makosky, was booked into the Delta County Jail. Court records show she was arraigned the following day in 94th District Court on three felony counts tied to resisting and obstructing officers and assaulting a police officer. A judge set her bond at $4,000, either cash or surety. She is scheduled to return to court on Feb. 19.
Authorities said the animal neglect case remains under review. Once investigators complete their findings, the matter will be forwarded to the Delta County Prosecutor’s Office for a charging decision. The Delta Animal Shelter assisted troopers in securing care for the surviving animals.
According to a Michigan State Police statement, the investigation is ongoing.
