Lusardi

ISHPEMING — On Wednesday, 39-year-old Andrew Lusardi was arraigned in 96th District Court on two counts of domestic violence, one count of animal abandonment/cruelty involving 10 or more but fewer than 25 animals, and one count of fourth-degree child abuse. His total bond was set at $2,000. Lusardi is scheduled to appear in court again on July 9.

Also on Wednesday, 34-year-old Brianna Poehls was arraigned in 96th District Court on one count of animal abandonment/cruelty involving 10 or more but fewer than 25 animals and one count of fourth-degree child abuse. Poehls was released on a personal recognizance bond and is scheduled to appear in court again on July 9.

According to a press release, at approximately 8:10 p.m. Tuesday, troopers from the Michigan State Police (MSP) Negaunee Post responded to a report of domestic violence at a residence in Ishpeming Township. Troopers determined that the suspect had left the residence and returned to his home in the City of Ishpeming. Troopers located the suspect at his home and subsequently executed a search warrant at the residence.

Inside the home, troopers found two young children, sixteen bloodhound dogs, and one cat. Troopers determined that the children and animals were living in unsafe and unsanitary conditions. The residence contained extensive animal feces and urine throughout the home, and troopers observed additional evidence indicating that both the children and animals were not being properly cared for.

In coordination with Child Protective Services (CPS), the children were placed with a relative to ensure their immediate safety while CPS completes their investigation. The dogs and cat were placed in the care of UPAWS, where they will receive appropriate care and evaluation.