Mt. Clemens, MI – Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido announced that 70-year-old Joseph Vanker, of Utica, MI, was arraigned on a charge of Assault with Intent to Murder after an alleged incident in his apartment on Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025.
It is alleged that on Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025, Utica Police were dispatched to Vanker’s apartment for a welfare check after a 911 hang-up. The police discovered the victim suffering with stab wounds requiring immediate medical attention. Vanker allegedly stabbed the victim multiple times.
On Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, Vanker was arraigned before Magistrate Christopher Alayan in the 41A District Court in Shelby Township, MI on a charge of Assault with Intent to Murder, a life or any term of years felony. Vanker also has a Habitual Second Offender Notice, which is an aggravating sentencing factor.
Magistrate Alayan set a $500,000 cash/surety (no 10%) bond with a GPS and alcohol tether ordered upon release. Vanker is scheduled for a Probable Cause Conference on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. and a Preliminary Exam on Tuesday, Dec. 16 at 9:00 a.m., both before Judge Stephen S. Sierawski at the 41A District Court in Shelby Township.
“When individuals turn to violence instead of peaceful means to settle disputes, it tears at the fabric of our community. We remain committed to seeking accountability through the justice system and ensuring public safety,” 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 that 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 E. Wolfe, Communications Director
Office: 586-469-5737
Cell: 586-842-4421
Email: esther.wolfe@macombgov.org
