Mount Clemens, MI – Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido announced that 19-year-old Dezhiar Blair, of Eastpointe, pled guilty to Third-Degree Animal Torture. The charge stems from Blair kicking her mother’s dog in the head, causing it to lose an eye. The charge is a 4-year felony and the maximum charge available under the law based upon the evidence presented to date.
On Monday, May 4, 2026, Blair pled guilty as charged at a Pretrial Conference before James M. Biernat, Jr. in Macomb County Circuit Court. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Justin Pollard represented the People at the hearing and objected to Blair’s request to be sentenced under the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA), which would allow her to avoid a public criminal conviction if she were to successfully complete ordered terms of probation.
Blair is scheduled to be sentenced before Judge Biernat on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. Judge Biernat will decide Blair’s sentence, including whether to sentence her under HYTA.
“Animal cruelty is not a minor offense—it is a clear indicator of disregard for life and the rule of law. When individuals choose to harm defenseless animals, they will face serious consequences. My office is committed to protecting the vulnerable, enforcing the law, and ensuring that those who inflict suffering are held accountable,” said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido.
The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office represents the People. We are committed to achieving justice and following the laws of the State of Michigan. All individuals who are accused of a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office
Contact: Esther Wolfe, Communications Director
Office: 586-469-5737
Cell: 586-842-4421
Email: esther.wolfe@macombgov.org
