Woman Charged with Biting Trooper During Animal Neglect Investigation

Competency exam ordered as Cornell Township animal neglect probe continues

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A 22-year-old Cornell Township woman has been charged with three counts of resisting and obstructing a Michigan State Police trooper after allegedly biting an officer during an animal neglect investigation. The woman's attorney has requested a competency examination, citing her inability to effectively communicate due to being off her medication and having memory issues. The investigation into the animal neglect allegations is ongoing, with the Delta County Prosecutor stating that no decisions have been made yet on potential additional charges.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex legal and mental health issues that can arise during investigations into animal neglect or abuse. The request for a competency exam raises questions about the defendant's capacity to understand the proceedings and assist in her own defense. The ongoing investigation also underscores the challenges law enforcement and prosecutors face in building a strong case to ensure the welfare of neglected animals.

The details

On February 4, Brianna Makosky was arrested and charged with three counts of resisting and obstructing a Michigan State Police trooper, each carrying a penalty of up to two years in prison. The charges stem from an incident where Makosky allegedly bit a trooper during an animal neglect investigation. During the initial investigation, authorities found several dead animals on Makosky's property and seized more than two dozen malnourished cats, rabbits, and a sheep, which are now in the care of the Delta Animal Shelter.

  • On February 4, Brianna Makosky was arrested.
  • On February 26, Makosky's attorney requested a competency examination.
  • The competency examination will be completed before the court proceedings regarding the resisting and obstructing charges resume.

The players

Brianna Makosky

A 22-year-old Cornell Township woman charged with three counts of resisting and obstructing a Michigan State Police trooper.

Lauren Wickman

The Delta County Prosecutor, who is overseeing the investigation and potential additional charges related to the animal neglect allegations.

Vonnie Bruce

The Shelter Operations Coordinator at the Delta Animal Shelter, which is currently caring for the animals seized from Makosky's property.

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What they’re saying

“She's not able to effectively communicate with us because she was off her meds and her memory is absent from the event due to blackout spells.”

— Brianna Makosky's attorney (wzmq19.com)

“This court well knows that there was a pending matter in the district court for a period of about four to five months, during which the defense attorney had no problem communicating with Ms. Makowsky.”

— Lauren Wickman, Delta County Prosecutor (wzmq19.com)

“Currently, the Michigan State Police is investigating the matter, gathering relevant evidence, information, and fact that may, or may not, lead to charges upon my review. No decision[s] have been made at this time, and no additional comments can be made at this time until the investigation has been completed.”

— Lauren Wickman, Delta County Prosecutor (wzmq19.com)

“It's not the first time we've been there. We were there over the summer helping [the State Police] remove a pony from the property, so we kind of knew—to an extent—what we were getting into.”

— Vonnie Bruce, Shelter Operations Coordinator, Delta Animal Shelter (wzmq19.com)

“Everyone who is involved is really trying to do their job to the best of their ability. The officer that's in charge of this situation is making sure to gather evidence and have everything she needs before she presents that to the prosecutor. We're 100% behind our local law enforcement and our prosecutor. Just try to put the good vibes out there and hope for the best.”

— Vonnie Bruce, Shelter Operations Coordinator, Delta Animal Shelter (wzmq19.com)

What’s next

The judge will decide whether to allow Brianna Makosky to undergo a competency examination before the court proceedings regarding the resisting and obstructing charges resume.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex legal and mental health issues that can arise during investigations into animal neglect, as well as the importance of thorough evidence gathering and cooperation between law enforcement, prosecutors, and animal welfare organizations to ensure the well-being of neglected animals.