SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – A Farmington Hills man has been charged after Southfield police said he repeatedly dumped animal remains outside Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, telling investigators the acts were part of a personal religious practice.
The Southfield Police Department announced Wednesday (July 22) it had concluded a months-long investigation into a series of illegal dumping incidents involving animal remains left at the cemetery’s entrance.
Investigation
Officers received multiple reports over several months of animal remains being discarded near the cemetery entrance.
Investigators said the remains primarily consisted of red snapper fish and pigeons.
Detectives launched an investigation in response to the repeated incidents and community concerns.
Using a combination of investigative techniques and technology, police identified the suspect as Dwight Respess, 48, of Farmington Hills.
According to police, Respess met with investigators and said he left the animal remains as part of a personal religious practice he believed would protect him from death.
Charges, court date
After reviewing the investigation, the Southfield City Prosecutor’s Office authorized one count of illegal dumping against Respess.
Respess was arraigned Tuesday and released after posting a $600 cash bond.
He is scheduled to appear in court again at 8:45 a.m. Aug. 12.
Department statement
Police emphasized the investigation and criminal charge were based solely on the alleged unlawful disposal of animal remains and not on the suspect’s religious beliefs or affiliations.
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