Three Suspects Charged in Shooting of Two Dogs in South Lansing

On the evening of August 4th, 2022, Ingham County Animal Control responded to a report of two dogs being shot behind the Boys and Girls Club located at 4315 Pleasant Grove Rd. in Lansing.

When officers arrived on scene they found two deceased dogs with apparent gunshot wounds. After a criminal investigation, Ingham County Animal Control officers, with assistance from several local law enforcement agencies, were able to identify three suspects involved in this crime. A report was submitted to the Ingham County Prosecutor’s office requesting criminal charges against these three suspects.

The Prosecutor’s Office issued warrants for the three suspects and on November 5th and November 9th these three individuals were arraigned for the following charges:

  • Tommy Allen Thayer
    • Conspiracy to commit the killing of an animal – Second degree (MCL 750.157A One count)
    • Killing of an animal – Second degree (MCL 750.50B4 - Two counts)
    • Carrying concealed weapon (MCL 750.239 – One count)
    • Felon in possession of a firearm – (MCL 750.224F – One count)
  • Tomi Alaya Thayer
    • Conspiracy to commit the killing of an animal – Second degree (MCL 750.157A - One count)
    • Aiding and abetting the killing of an animal – Second degree (MCL 750.50B4 – Two counts)
    • Carrying concealed weapon (MCL 750.239 – One count)
    • Larceny of a firearm – (MCL 750.227 – One count)
  • Karen Christine Curtis
    • Conspiracy to commit the killing of an animal – Second degree (MCL 750.157A - One count)

Tommy Allen Thayer is currently being held in the Ingham County Jail on a $50,000 bond. Tomi Alaya Thayer and Karen Christine Curtis have been released on their own recognizance.

The above-named individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Ingham County Animal Control thanks the community and their area law enforcement partners for all of their support in helping our officers bring this investigation to a successful conclusion. If you see or suspect animal cruelty, please contact our agency at (517) 676-8370 or email us at [email protected].