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Second Arrest Made in Animal Cruelty Case

Michael Law was arrested Tuesday on charges of aggravated cruelty to animals

The Macomb Police Department has made a second arrest after 41 dead animals were found inside the Macomb Pet Land over the weekend.

As Tri States Public Radio previously reported, the owner of the store, Jessica Spangler, 38, from Avon was arrested Sunday on charges of aggravated cruelty to animals by the Fulton County Sheriff’s Department and then transported to McDonough County. She was let go after paying $10,000 which was 10% of her $100,000 bond.

Macomb Police Chief Curt Barker said Spangler told investigators she had coordinated with another individual to care for the animals and she was not aware that they were not being cared for.  Police said that individual was Michael Law.

Law, 68, a resident of Macomb was arrested by the Macomb Police Department on Tuesday on charges of aggravated cruelty to animals. Law is a former employee of the pet store. He was released after paying a $10,000 which was 10% of his $100,000 bond.

Aggravated cruelty to animals is a felony charge than could lead to probation or jail time.

Over the weekend, Macomb Police responded to a call that Macomb Pet Land appeared to be closed down, but there were animals inside and a strong order coming from the building.

Credit Tri States Public Radio
Macomb Pet Land is located at 603. E. Jackson St.

Upon arrival, officers noted signs on the door that said the business was closed for maintenance and that the animals were fed and watered daily. Barker said the power had been shut off to the building.

Barker said they found 41 dead animals inside including rabbits, snakes, mice and hamsters. Officers removed 56 living animals from the premises, but Barker said not all survived due to poor health.

There were no dogs inside the building. All the living animals were evaluated by a veterinarian, cleaned and put in foster homes where they will remain during the court proceedings.

Barker said this is an ongoing criminal investigation, though they do not expect any more arrests at this time.