FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office
Contact: Dawn Fraylick, Communications Director
Office: +1 (586) 469-5737
Cell: +1 (586) 842-4421
Email: Dawn.Fraylick@macombgov.org
November 14, 2024
Shelby Twp. Man Arraigned for Random Attack of Elderly Man
Mount Clemens, MI - A 31-year-old Shelby Township man was arraigned in connection with a brutal attack on a 76-year-old man who was on his daily walk in Sterling Heights on Riverland Drive.
On Tuesday, November 12, 2024, Defrim Lazaj allegedly followed the elderly victim for several miles before attacking him from behind, punching him multiple times in the head and face. During the assault, Lazaj allegedly escalated the attack by stabbing the victim with a knife. Fortunately, several good Samaritans intervened, causing Lazaj to flee. Sterling Heights Police quickly apprehended him nearby.
“Our senior citizens deserve to feel safe and secure in their communities, and attacks like this are absolutely intolerable,” said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido. “This was a brutal, senseless act targeting one of our elderly residents. Protecting seniors is a top priority for my office, and we are committed to seeking justice for this victim and ensuring that those who harm our elders face the full consequences of the law.”
Lazaj was charged with Assault with Intent to Murder, a felony punishable by up to life in prison, and Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, a felony carrying up to four years. He was arraigned in the 41A Sterling Heights District Court, where Magistrate Michael Piatek set bond at $500,000 cash/surety only. If released, Lazaj is to wear a GPS tether and have no contact with the victim. A Probable Cause Hearing is scheduled for Monday, November 25, 2024, at 9:00 am before Judge Stephen Sierawski.
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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