Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

Ten days ago I reported a neighbor for having an unrestrained dog. The dog had previously bitten my son, terrorized my wife, and snarled and snapped at me on several occasions. I only reported that the dog was loose, and Animal Control issued a mild warning saying that his dog must be restrained. That evening the owner showed up at my house (he had been drinking) and began shouting at me and physically threatening me along with minor pushing and finger stabbing. (I was rather taken off balance as I thought the complaint I had lodged was a very minor thing.) The volume and length of the threats was of course embarrassing, but because I didn't want to inflame the situation, I mistakenly didn't call the police. That I now see was a mistake. Ten days have past. Is it too late for a police report? Does pushing and finger stabbing constitute and an assault? I believe the man to be somewhat unstable.


Asked on 3/29/10, 7:59 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
William Morrison Action Defense Center

As a practical matter, Yes, it's too late, and No you shouldn't report him without thinking your future with this neighbor all the way through. Any citizen who thinks the government can resolve personal issues with another is sadly mistaken. Police exist to keep you from actual harm, not from insults to your person. You can be sure that if you call the police about your neighbor, you will wish you hadn't.

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Answered on 4/03/10, 10:29 am


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