Felon Accused of Assaulting Pet Dog In Derby, Threatening Bystanders Who Tried To Intervene: PD

DERBY, CT — A city resident is accused of assaulting his dog on O’Sullivan’s Island and then threatening people who tried to intervene to protect the pet, according to police.

Thomas Michel, 60, of Derby, was charged Sunday with cruelty to animals, second-degree threatening, breach of peace, and criminal possession of ammunition.

Police said they received a report about Michel assaulting his dog and threatening people. During their investigation, police said they found handgun ammunition in Michel’s possession. Michel is a convicted felon, police said.

“The dog was removed from the situation and appropriate measures were taken to ensure its safety and well-being,” police said.

Desmond’s Army Animal Law Advocates, an advocacy group, said the dog is in protective care.

“We want to thank the Derby Police Department for taking animal cruelty seriously and acting quickly to protect this innocent dog,” the organization said. “If you witness animal abuse or neglect, speak up and report it immediately.”

Michel is next due to appear in Superior Court in Derby on June 18, according to the state Judicial Branch website. As of Tuesday, he was in state Department of Correction custody, being held on a $50,000 bond.