Drug charge filed against man accused of deliberately running over ducklings with Hummer
A misdemeanor drug charge has been filed against a man accused of deliberately running over four ducklings with a Hummer in a McDonald's parking lot last month in Ann Arbor.
Dillon Robert Pearce, 19, of Ann Arbor, has been charged with possession of marijuana, Washtenaw County Assistant Prosecutor Paul Barnett said in court today.
Dillon Pearce
Pearce's attorney, David Nacht, declined to comment.
Ann Arbor police say Pearce intentionally ran over the ducklings in the parking lot of the McDonald's at 2675 Plymouth Road about 6:30 p.m. April 25.
Nacht has said it was an unfortunate accident. Pearce is scheduled to return to court for a pretrial hearing on June 29 in front of Washtenaw County Circuit Judge Archie Brown.
If convicted of killing an animal, Pearce faces up to four years in prison.
Lee Higgins covers crime and courts for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached by phone at (734) 623-2527 and email at leehiggins@annarbor.com.
Comments
Left is Right
Fri, May 20, 2011 : 3:14 a.m.
What a waste of time and money. A reprehensible, impulsive, and stupid act to be sure, but our tax dollars are being used to prosecute this "dangerous criminal." "Hey, let's wreck this guy's life for running over ducklings that the coyotes probably would have gotten anyway. It'll be easy, and we'll look good to our constituents on annarbor.com." Don't they have more serious crimes to prosecute? Or maybe it's lawyer-to-lawyer churn to get some folding-money billables for the defense attorneys. Did he have a tail-light out also? Three strikes right there. No wonder Michigan spends so much on "corrections." Lynch mob? Exactly. I say take him to Singapore for some caning! And if our prosecutors can't figure out better crimes to spend their time prosecuting, well...I see where we can start cutting the budget.
Fredric
Fri, May 20, 2011 : 2:58 a.m.
In many cases like this, The judge has given the offender ( If found guilty) the opportunity to do one of 2 things;. Serve the time in Jail or enter the Military, Boot Camp would do wonders for this young man !
Roadman
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 9:04 p.m.
One point that I believe is important as to why the County Prosecutor would want to transform a civil infraction marijuana ordinance violation handled by the City Attorney into a misdemeanor violation under the state law's Controllled Substances Act prosecuted through the office of Brian Mackie. Under the state expungement statute Pearce, if convicted of the felony animal abuse violation, could move to have that conviction erased and the entire case placed under seal in the circuit court after five years of his conviction. If Pearce has another criminal conviction - misdemeanor or felony - he is ineligible for relief under the expungement law. A civil infraction would not have disallowed him from moving for eventual expungement. The result of the actions of city atoorney Bob West in dismissing the civil infraction and "passing of the torch" to Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Paul Barnett with respect to the marijuana misdemeanor charge was nothing less than tactical brilliance on the part of those two gentlemen. Kudos to Messrs. West and Barnett. An unexpungible felony conviction could mean Mr Pearce goes on through life with this conviction, which could hamper his attempts to obtain an occupational license, purchase a firearm, seek a security clearance, apply for a immigration visa, find employment and otherwise lead a normal life. While others ardently seek incarceration for the young man, I can find solace in knowing Mr. Pearce could bear a heavy price in his ability to lead a normal life if convicted of these two charges.
aawolve
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 5:29 p.m.
annarbor.com- I see that you're reading and deleting comments, but still refuse to identify the convicted criminal from your story last week. I'm really starting to wonder who exactly that med student's daddy is. Here is the link. <a href="http://ww.annarbor.com/news/u-m-graduate-student-whose-plan-helped-catch-a-thief-to-be-honored-for-his-effort/">http://ww.annarbor.com/news/u-m-graduate-student-whose-plan-helped-catch-a-thief-to-be-honored-for-his-effort/</a>
Townie
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 4:31 p.m.
From 'senior pranks' to running over ducklings to this... Anyone notice the progression?
Wolf's Bane
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 2:55 p.m.
In addition to the drug and animal cruelty charges Mr. Pearce faces additional charges stemming from the destruction of a police car at Huron High School. Just an FYI? Stellar human being.
Roadman
Fri, May 20, 2011 : 11:53 p.m.
A HYTA dismissal is an "all-out dismissal". In Wayne County you can get a felony dismissal under HYTA. You can also get a "plea under advisement" diversion program dismissal for first time offenders of certain non-violent offenses often fraud or weapons violations. You can also get a drug violation diversion under Section 7411 of the Controlled Substances Act. Those with one criminal conviction may also be eligible for expungement under state law if there are no other criminal convictions and the offense is covered under the law.
lester88
Fri, May 20, 2011 : 3:11 a.m.
I hear the charge for damaging the police car was dismissed under HYTA. The Holmes Youthful Trainee Act. Not exactly the all out dismissal that Roadman suggests repeatedly as fact.
Roadman
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 3:52 p.m.
No, the charge against him on the squad car were, for unclear reasons, dismissed.
aawolve
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 2:13 p.m.
annarbor.com- Why are you naming Pearce, when he hasn't been convicted, but you won't name the University of Michigan medical student that was convicted of stealing from a frat. You published the story on 03/11/2011 , and refused to name a convicted criminal. Why the double standard? Here is the link to that story. <a href="http://ww.annarbor.com/news/u-m-graduate-student-whose-plan-helped-catch-a-thief-to-be-honored-for-his-effort/">http://ww.annarbor.com/news/u-m-graduate-student-whose-plan-helped-catch-a-thief-to-be-honored-for-his-effort/</a>
aawolve
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 1:48 p.m.
It seems that Dillon is still really struggling with his spirituality.
Audion Man
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 1:42 p.m.
Who cares? Reading this, is two minutes I ain't ever gonna get back.
aawolve
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 1:49 p.m.
You care, as the fact that you're commenting suggests.
AA
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 1:14 p.m.
Another victim of a society gone crazy.
aawolve
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 5:30 p.m.
Blame "society" for the actions of an individual. Typical.
Roadman
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 3:53 p.m.
Pearce or the ducklings?
Hmm
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 12:44 p.m.
Ok this is just piling on. Wasn't he in Ann Arbor when this happened? How can they charge him with that when city law says possession of MJ is a fineable offense? Since when is it policy to charge Ann Arbor residents with possession if they are caught within city limits? I don't excuse his behavior for allegedly driving over the ducklings, but charging him with possession is unjust imo.
Steve Hendel
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 11:41 a.m.
ENOUGH ALREADY ! This incident is bad enough, but it's not the crime of the century. Surely your reporters have other local events to cover.
John B.
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 5:37 p.m.
Yeah, but the page hits are great for this kind of stuff!
Silly Sally
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 11:36 a.m.
So, one silly Reader wants us all to pay to keep this jerk in prison for 16 years, over 4 ducks or geese. Hunters are allowed to hunt them, so their lives can't be worth that much. What he did was cruel, and he should be punished, as a no one in a civilized society wishes to see such behavior. But 16 years in jail, or "just 4, or even one is too much. A month is plenty, and will give him time to ponder his actions. If he has a job, then many, many evenings and weekends of community service that temp. ruin his social life, if he still has one, is fine. There is a lot of road trash, trash left over after each Top of the Park evening, weeds to wack at our schools, toilets to clean, and many other creative punishments that will save taxpayers money, not cost us $35 grand a year, for 16 years, or "just" 4 years.
david st. crystal
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 8:31 p.m.
Right, because when we save that $35,000--which is an irrelevant figure since the kid is probably looking at probation or a few weeks--ol' Snyder boy and his minions will use all that cash for the good! I know that Rick is very concerned about "weed wacking" and cleaning trash. Get real. Tax money is getting flushed down the toilet anyway, and I'd rather see it go here. The relative unimportance of killing ducks is not the issue. The prosecutor/judge/jury have the chance to send a message to obnoxious kids that A2 isn't their personal playground. Sure it's fun as a teen to egg houses, TP entire yards, and engage in occasional vandalism. As serious as homicide? No, but I've yet to see someone shrug these "fun" events when they're the victim. And for those who can't fathom why it's relevant that he drove a Hummer, recognize that those behemoths sell for $30 to $40,000 dollars. Presumably that's where all the comments about his wealth come from, and generally cops/prosecutors/judges/juries have less sympathy for the troublemakers rolling in dough.
Ross
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 1:39 p.m.
I fully agree. The only required punishment is a few hundred hours of community service. Wasting tax payer dollars for prison time would be stupid.
InterestedReader
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 11:34 a.m.
From an article last year: "The other three 17-year-olds charged - Miles Staton, Stephen Bakarich, and Dillon Pearce - are scheduled to appear for preliminary hearings June 9. They each face two felony charges of malicious destruction of police property." What happened to that felony charge? He seems to be collecting them.
Roadman
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 4:01 p.m.
The charge against Pearce was dismissed.
Hmm
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 1:01 p.m.
Good find, yeah this guy definitely has a problem obeying the law, he wants to be a rebel or something. He needs to be taught a lesson for sure
Tru2Blu76
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 7:15 a.m.
Can't agree with those saying this young man's actions aren't significant. He has traffic citations in addition to the two charges currently against him. When he ran over the ducklings, he was not only violating game laws and humane treatment laws: he was displaying his disregard for laws and the rules of decent conduct as well. I'm sure a psychologist would confirm that Pearce is displaying a pattern of behavior which could easily become more dangerous. It's not about the cost of incarceration: it's about the cost to potential victims should Pearce be allowed to go undeterred with his developing behavior problems. Pearce should be given a psychological evaluation before he goes to court. The findings might well indicate a sentence which includes mandatory treatment.
John B.
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 5:35 p.m.
Nick, if you shortened things up by a factor of three or four, I think more people would read your posts.
Nick
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 8:30 a.m.
His license is proballey already suspended as a result of the marihauna charge . Prior traffic tickets do not make a brazen criminal or half of Congress would be in prison and under psychiatric care . Then there are just the same two charges . With all respect as a fellow citizen now besides felony prison time from enhanced modern day restrictive law that has questionalbe penalties for the event ......you want to take a immature teenager and put him into subjective psychiatric care we know will prescribe dangerous drugs that have had very short efficacy trials ( its all about making professional fee's and drug profits ) with unknown long term consequences . Drugs that often effect people in different ways and prescribed by men and women without regard to patient feedback just what their notes say should be the result blended with observed half hour meetings once a month or less . This is a perfect example of what is wrong with self serving Michigan based behavioral medicine and the courts blended overbearing reach within our State . It does push good people over the eduge . I don't want to have to suffer the consequences 4 years from now having to deal with what this young man becomes after your justice gets done with him . I am tired of having to use and pay for this system . Funny patients can't get basic healthy institutional care ( good food , rest and recreational therapy or a friendly detox after being damaged by medications ) but we lock citizens up to care for them creating more and more criminals all the time . Most people do not know the system does not police Doctors its all ad lib or the courts and people already fear them as well as the police ( they used to be seen as saftey and help ) . Courts cannot always find truth thats not possible their about presentation and interpretation of evidence , that is often based on subjective paid professional testimony presented as fact only the Government can afford spending our tax dollars .
snapshot
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 6:54 a.m.
What happened to innocent until proben guilty "beyond a reasonable doubt". If you're innocent dude, go for a jury trial. Since only 1% of prosecutoral misconduct goes unpunished, it's up to the jurors to ensure a "fair trial" and pass judgement.
Jack Gladney
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 6:42 a.m.
Why does the word "Hummer" continue to appear in updates of this story? What if this twit was driving a beaten up 1986 Buick LaSabre. Doesn't sound quite as sexy.
Left is Right
Fri, May 20, 2011 : 3:50 a.m.
The Hummer is a nice element to this story. It helps boil the blood. Children of privilege getting away with murder. Billionaire Boys' Club in our own backyard. "Yeah! Stick it to 'im! This is Ann Arbor! We put the lives of animals before those of humans!" But given that it is entertainment, it's not nearly as good as gonzo journalism; more like a FOX News or MSNBC suffering effects of carbon monoxide poisoning.
John B.
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 5:33 p.m.
Because they are being factual? It's a new concept....
Nick
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 6:06 a.m.
I think it was wrong to withdrawl the local civil infraction charge for the marihuana and charge under the State Statute nothing in the system solves anything it just puts money in the pockets of ineffective professionals programs that connect users . I am sadened that every time a person is caught with marihuana now you hear a remark joking about them being a patient . There is a protest for accpeptance of medicinal patients May 25th in Lansing . You can look very healthy and still be dieing of cancer , aides , complications from hep C and yes even suffering from untreatable severe chronic pain effecting desire to eat , think clearly , and take care of oneself . Giving people permanent criminal records should not be the rule and the same with jail nothing good is learned there and allot of bad habbits and attitudes are . Once you have gone the fear of going is taken away unless your sick or disabled where it is then torture without proper care . I can't understand why people act out on animals it is truely terrible . I agree the mitigating factors that should be considered are these are not pets , they are huntable animals under proper conditions ..this shouldnt be a witch hunt . It is upsetting that the community may end up spending allot of resources on a case like this . How will anyone know if he was gulity or it was a negligent accident ? It is so common now to pile on charges to try to get a plea . People are so mean and prone to judgement in the public . You rarely see people accept responabillity and apologize for mistakes because penalties are so harsh and permenant for good people with mandatory sentances . Criminals dont care .
John B.
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 5:32 p.m.
Nothing this kid has done has been 'an accident.' Check his background.
Hmm
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 12:58 p.m.
I voted you up, that was a very good comment
david st. crystal
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 11:16 a.m.
Well said. As a teacher I know it's possible to die of "aides."
bunnyabbot
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 4:45 a.m.
well I certainly hope his parents took the Hummer away from him. I just about got hit by one today while stepping off the curb into a crosswalk with a walk sign. Dark Grey Hummer, BAD BAD BAD.
Roadman
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 4:53 a.m.
The Hummer my still be impounded.
Mike
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 4:18 a.m.
The drug charge will be what is used to bargain away the bigger issue. I wonder if he had a medical marijuana card, he doesn't look well.
Roadman
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 4:59 a.m.
I remember when drunk driving offenses carried heavy points and almost no city attorney bargained them down to non-drinking offenses due to political pressure from MADD, wreaking havoc on insurance rates. One poor bloke was arrested for drunk driving (a six-point offense);the City Attorney was in a good mood and offered to drop the D.U.I. if the defendant pled under advisement to a possession of marijuana charge which would be dismissed if he stayed clean for 6 months. The marijuana possession actually helped him keep his driving record clean and ultimately the criminal drug charge was dismissed. So pot can help you in some situations. LOL.
Barbara Clarke
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 1:48 a.m.
Let's hope this kid gets the max that the law will provide. What he did was inexcusable and stupid. Serving some jail time will get his attention.
Left is Right
Fri, May 20, 2011 : 3:56 a.m.
No problem. We'll just send you the bill.
Nick
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 6:43 a.m.
Anyone that thinks that Citizens should be happy paying $150,000 for prison time to create another dysfunctional citizen is not thinking this through . That doesn't even consider costs of time off the road to testify of officers , prosecutorial time , court time , consoling in jail costs , drug treatment ( worthless ) reintroduction into society broke later after living with criminals some cruely insane . It is sad you can commit manslaughter and do less time in many States . I read the statute and it appears he could of been charged with a first offense misdomeanor that would of been more appropriate . So many people have had loved ones robbed or killed in this County that aren't receiving attention due to lack of resources . You do not learn anything good in jail infact you learn to hate , many with no opertunity after getting out learn to use the system as a parking spot inbetween bouts of real crime . Many are victimized by truely sadistic individuals there and become twisted themselves . then their let out broke and we deal with more desperate people . There is nothing to be gained by pushing any salvageable Citizen into its depths . These were ducks which are farm animals . If guilty it was immoral and wrong but not worth putting a cross on the young man for life with prison experience to boot . There should be a CI for this and allot of other offenses on the books now . Jail or Prison should not be given out or threatened lightly like it is .
Moscow On The Huron
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 12:51 a.m.
According to the 15th District Court web site: "DISMISSED ON MOTION OF CITY ATTORNEY."
loves_fall
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 2:45 p.m.
Yeah, I saw that too. Interesting...
Roadman
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 1:36 a.m.
Thanks for the tip. It appears Mr. Pearce had been already charged in April under the municpal marijuana ordinance and made an $80.00 payment on May 17th according to the court's website to resolve the case. Bob West was the City Attorney representative in the matter. On the 18th (today) no one appeared in court and the case was dismissed by the City Attorney with the notation that the prosecutor would authorize a charge. The same day the court reversed the $80.00 credit card payment. These notations suggest to me that the municipal civil infraction charge was dropped so the County Prosecutor could bring a criminal state charge and the payment by Pearce the day before suggests he tried to pre-empt this by making a payment to close the civil infraction case. Kind of questionable conduct; annarbor.com should follow up on this to get the lowdown on what went on here.
snoopdog
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 12:27 a.m.
What a fowl situation ! Good Day
snoopdog
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 12:19 a.m.
A picture is worth a thousand words, priceless ! Good Day
eldegee
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 10:45 p.m.
Shame that they can't show the same concern over humans.
free form
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 1:38 a.m.
I will never understand this type of response. Why do you feel that if someone cares about animals they must somehow NOT care about humans? Do you seriously believe that if you replaced the baby ducks in this situation with human babies that people would not care about this crime? The idea is ludicrous.
Rachel
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 10:19 p.m.
Running over ducklings is so disgusting, I wish it were four years PER duck.
Silly Sally
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 11:40 a.m.
So, silly Rachel wants us all to pay to keep this jerk in prison for 16 years, over 4 ducks or geese. Hunters are allowed to hunt them, so their lives can't be worth that much. What he did was cruel, and he should be punished, as a no one in a civilized society wishes to see such behavior. But 16 years in jail, or "just 4, or even one is too much. A month is plenty, and will give him time to ponder his actions. If he has a job, then many, many evenings and weekends of community service that temp. ruin his social life, if he still has one, is fine. There is a lot of road trash, trash left over after each Top of the Park evening, weeds to wack at our schools, toilets to clean, and many other creative punishments that will save taxpayers money, not cost us $35 grand a year, for 16 years
48104
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9:48 p.m.
Isn't he one of the Huron kids who pooped on a police car last year as a prank? Busy young man!
Roadman
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 3:56 p.m.
Actually, charges relating to that incidentagainst Pearce were dismissed for unknown reasons. Others were convicted.
skigrl50
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 12:16 p.m.
Yes, he is...
huh7891
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9:26 p.m.
Uh I wouldn't suggest community service at the Humane Society..wouldn't want to endanger anymore animals.
Ken Boyd
Fri, May 20, 2011 : 1:43 p.m.
Better yet, picking up road kill for the county!
Roadman
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9:49 p.m.
Just make hm clean waste matter from cages.
michaywe
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9:25 p.m.
Waddle, waddle, quack, quack!
Roadman
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9:49 p.m.
"Be kind to our web-footed friends....."
free form
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9:17 p.m.
I am so sick of hearing the standard, "Well, some other criminal only got XX years for such and such heinous crime so this kid shouldn't get four years in prison." It is comparing apples and oranges. Look at this case and stop comparing it to others that have no relevance. Just because other criminals received a sentence that you deemed too light, does not mean that THIS case should not be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. If this man is found guilty I certainly hope that the full sentence is applied.
Ken Boyd
Fri, May 20, 2011 : 1:42 p.m.
Yes, you are right. The duck killer should receive an appropiate sentence. Maybe a fine , or community service like picking up road kill for the county.
63Townie
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9:12 p.m.
Hmmm, this potentially explains why he was at Mickey D's twice...munchies.
zip the cat
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:52 p.m.
Just another snott nosed spoiled brat who doesent have a care in the world. Living off rich mommy an daddy. Whats a 19 yr old doing driving a hummer????
Roadman
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9:12 p.m.
Hey, you just decribed profile of our countries' future leaders. You have likely described about half of our U.S. presidents at that age.
lumberg48108
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:51 p.m.
46 comments by 5 pm ... i am betting that will pass 100 by nights end the investment ann arborites have in this "story" would be comical if not so disturbing
Tru2Blu76
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 7 a.m.
You were close: 99 comments at 3AM Thursday.
free form
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9:08 p.m.
And yet, here YOU are commenting as well and pretending to be above it all...
Indicat
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:50 p.m.
I'm not sure I agree with jail for the duck killings. I would, however, like to see a sentence that HE has to deal with, not that his parents can open their checkbook to make go away. He should have to perform community service....just not at the Humane Society. As for the drug charge, I guess it depends on quantity and intent.
Mike
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 4:20 a.m.
Too late, they already have opened their wallet.
Roadman
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9:14 p.m.
What about quality as well as quantity? As to community service let him clean public restroom toilets for about 200 hours - he seems to like poop.
Roy Munson
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:32 p.m.
I'm sure the judge will throw the book at him in this city. He will be punsished more severely than two kids who steal a truck and use it to break into 100+ cars across the city.
Roadman
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:57 p.m.
Don't count on it. I remember a Washtenaw County Comunity College student long ago who killed a motorist on the freeway by hoisting a bowling ball over an overpass and later claimed he was just trying to dispose of an unwanted bowlng ball. The sentencing judge gave him 90 days in jail with community service and extensive probationary oversight and told the young man that many will feel he got off too light. Let us not get over the fact that four wild animals died - not a human being, nor a beloved pet.
Roy Munson
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:30 p.m.
Was this a Canadian goose? If that is the case, I say let him run his Hummer through every park and golf course and get rid of these destructive, E Coli machines.
Roy Munson
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 6:22 p.m.
Yeah, it was a brilliant idea to decide to protect those Canadian Geese and let them take over every park and golf course.
Kai Petainen
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 4:35 a.m.
HAHAHHAHA.... I have the South Park song... Blame Canada, ringing in my ears.
arborani
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 10:51 p.m.
@ jondhall and Roy: Many, many, MANY "Canadian" (i.e., Canada) geese are hatched in the USA, and thus are native-born citizens. They have teensy little birth certificates.
aanative
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 10:08 p.m.
The fowl involved were ducks. And the nationality of Canada geese is irrelevant.
david st. crystal
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:44 p.m.
This is great! When I heard about the duck murders, I was furious. The alleged duck hunter is clearly a scumbag of the rankest vintage, and I hope a precedent is set by giving the alleged offender some time in prison. Will he get 4 years? Of course not, but the fact that they're pursuing this suggests they're taking it more seriously than usual. It doesn't clarify how much weed he had anyway. Why assume it was a joint? There are plenty of suburban rich kids (not that I know about his financial status either) who sell pot, and it's not unfathomable he'd have a large amount. And he's 19, not 13. He'll be treated like the adult he is, and even expensive lawyers can't sway a prosecutor and/or jury or judge.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:19 p.m.
Hang him high!! Lock the door and throw away the key. This alleged duck-runner-overer and Marijuana possessor, who in the past was also guilty of numerous minor violations, CLEARLY will NEVER be a productive member of society. So let's incarcerate him in the prison system at a cost of $35,000 per year to the Michigan taxpayer--an investment WELL worth getting him off the street. Gee, it sure is FUN to be part of a lynch mob! Good Night and Good Luck
Hmm
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 12:51 p.m.
A voice of reason, how refreshing
Mike
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 4:22 a.m.
Gave you my vote on this one ghost. As you know I don't agree with you too often :-)
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 12:47 a.m.
@WW: ROFL Good Night and Good Luck
John B.
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 11:05 p.m.
Somewhat (OK, loosely) related, and in the 'food for thought' category: did you know that the average Death sentence now costs about $3.25 Million to carry out, whereas the average life-without-parole costs under $1 Million to carry out?
Will Warner
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 11:03 p.m.
Mirabile dictu! I voted for your post, Ghost.
Roadman
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9:02 p.m.
This is conjuring up images of "To Kill a Mockingbird". Will Dave Nacht be the next Gregory Peck?
Molly E. Osler
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:15 p.m.
I think he should be charged with the maximum possible for animal abuse as well as face charges for everything else he is accused of.
Roadman
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9 p.m.
We are only talking about four wild animals - Washtenaw County Circuit Court often gives probation sentences to those motorists who kill people. Although a parrot abuser got a 10-month sentence.
laurie simpson
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:12 p.m.
I'm curious why an employment and civil rights and business law lawyer took this case. Why doesn't he have a criminal defense attorney? Just another attempt to keep Mr. Nacht's name in the news?
John B.
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 11 p.m.
"Nacht is no idiot; he is well-connected - that is half the battle in the Washtenaw Circuit Court system." Trials are legal battles. Having the best lawyer (read: most expensive/powerful/forceful, generally) leads to winning the battle the vast majority of the time, sadly. Think OJ #1, or any number of high-profile cases.... The legal system in our country is two-tiered.
Roadman
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:01 p.m.
The fact of a Hummer being used in this case to run over four helpless ducklings in a McDonald's lot is somewhat allegorical. The Hummer came to symbolize the Persian Gulf War much as the Huey helicopter symbolized Vietnam. McDonald's restaurants signifies America's global multinational corporate domination. The use of the Hummer in running over four ducklings could be viewed in the abstract as representing in a figurative sense of America's callous domination of the Third World and the helplessness of those persons in the face of U.S imperialism. The fact the ducklings inhabited a nest at McDonald's symbolizes the international corporate saturation of U.S. companies even into the Third World. It would also explain why public sentiment locally has been both effusive and angry against Mr. Pearce. It represents an index of our values as Ann Arbor citizens. Those who oppose Iraq intervention likely side with the ducklings in this drama. Ann Arbor is glued to this story as it is as powerful and symbolic as Hemingway's "Old Man and The Sea". It is worthy of a Nobel Prize nomination.
Ken Boyd
Fri, May 20, 2011 : 1:36 p.m.
Really? I think this is about an immature person that ran over four ducklings in a callous manner. Hemingway is the most over rated writer in the history of the English language.
PattyinYpsi
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 11:57 a.m.
@EyeHeartA2: "It just a story about a guy harpooning a big whale." I believe you're thinking of "Moby Dick," not "The Old Man and the Sea." Roadman, I like your allegory! But let's not overlook the fact that the Hummer, in real life, is the most environmentally damaging and unpatriotic vehicle on the road. The amount of oil it uses, for absolutely no reason except to make up for the owner's shortcomings, is disgusting.
Mike
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 4:22 a.m.
Hummers are evil, ask any environmentalist.
EyeHeartA2
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 1:32 a.m.
Dude, seriously? It just a story about a guy harpooning a big whale. Nothing more, nothing less.
bedrog
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 11:50 p.m.
emily...please.!! you'll just encourage him.
Kai Petainen
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 11:03 p.m.
i'd have to agree... this is quite a symbolic/allegroical situation. curious to see how the end plays out...
Emily
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 9:50 p.m.
@Roadman, I have a comment crush on you.
Jimmy McNulty
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 7:53 p.m.
Lee, I wish you would just state that this new charge is from the same incident, and not a subsequent arrest.
Roadman
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 7:43 p.m.
What I find significant is that attorney Nacht waived the preliminary examination. It shows me that the County Prosecutor likely has some substantial evidence of criminal intent as opposed to a mere accident. Nacht likely became aware of this in the discovery process, receiving the police reports and any witness statements from the County Prosecutor. Procedurally, however, the jurisdiction of the circuit court to hear a charge is limited to the crimes returned by the judicial officer conducting the preliminary examination, so Nacht would have to specifically waive a preliminary examination on both counts. I would have to believe the possession charge arose out of the initial incident, likely due to an inventory search of the Hummer after impoundment or perhaps marijuana recovered from the peson of Pearce following his arrest. Otherwise a drug charge from an unrelated event could not be joined in the same criminal case. The story does not disclose whether the drug charge is a misdemeanor or felony nor does it disclose the amount recovered. What is interesting is that Archie Brown has been assigned the trial judge for this case. An Engler appointee, he has been known to vary his sentences from probation to long terms of imprisonment for minor felonies such as the animal abuse count facing Pearce. He gave a businessman a four-year term for environmental contamination but has also given probation in certain high-profile cases, including the man who was tasered by a deputy at a soccer match for allgedly resisting arrest. Brown has a reputation as a polite jurist, but one who has had highly-publicized funding battles with the County Commission as well as certain district judges when he was the chief judge of the circuit court.
Roadman
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:45 p.m.
@grye: Thanks for the heads up.
grye
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:41 p.m.
Re if the charge is a felony or misdemeanor; try looking at the first 4 words of the article.
dading dont delete me bro
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 7:40 p.m.
what happened to all the "but he's a good kid" arguments...?
Roadman
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:05 p.m.
I am sure many in Barton Hills continue to say: "There, but for the grace of God, goes my own child."
Bertha Venation
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 7:38 p.m.
What a surprise.... (BIG eye roll)
OLDTIMER3
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 7:23 p.m.
And the guy who killed and dismembered his wife only got 10 years. Something wrong with this countries judicial system.
John B.
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 11:14 p.m.
If you want to kill someone and get away with it, get drunk and use a motor vehicle. Now *that's* messed up and just plain wrong!
HENRYK
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 7:19 p.m.
I can hear that kid now, Mommy the police are being mean too me. When are our 19 year old boys going to be men again?
f4phantomII
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 7:30 p.m.
They are. They're wearing the uniforms of our country's armed forces in places like Iraq and Afghanistan. Anything I might add about this guy would undoubtedly be censored by AA.com.
DanAA
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 7:17 p.m.
I think it was an "unfortunate accident" that he had the marijuana as well. We know this young man would never do anything deliberately...
Blue
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 7:15 p.m.
Pity his parents? This is the child they raised! It's all just a little sickening. Anyone surprised his attorney now has no comment?
A2comments
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 7:08 p.m.
I pity his parents. Hopefully they realize that this young man needs some strong parenting immediately, or he may be a lost cause. I wish them well.
stevek
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 7:02 p.m.
Maybe Mommy and Daddy can make that charge all better also...
actionjackson
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 7:25 p.m.
Hmm, is there an open run over baby duckling season in Ann Arbor city limits? Would this season also apply to family pets and such?
aawolve
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 1:52 p.m.
@ hmm- It happens all the time actually. It depends on what department you're dealing with.
Hmm
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 12:45 p.m.
He should not be charged with anything if he was in Ann Arbor city limits
John B.
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 6:53 p.m.
The legal system will take care of this person.
Roadman
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 8:03 p.m.
Don't count your ducklings until their hatched. Nacht is one crafty and well-connected attorney in A2.
EatKeyLimePie
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 6:52 p.m.
That mug shot of Mr. Pearce is priceless, I am curious how the drug charge just now came up, was the possession discovered when the original incident happened or was this after the fact? I am looking forward to hearing the outcome of this on June 29th.
pegret
Thu, May 19, 2011 : 10:01 p.m.
I wonder if that's how he really looks. Spencer Pratt without the "creepy flesh-colored beard".
John B.
Wed, May 18, 2011 : 6:57 p.m.
Cases take time to develop, substances have to be officially analyzed, etc....