Sterling Heights Resident Charged With Felony Animal Torture Following Fatal Assault on Partner's Yorkie Captured on Video

Fouad Yosif Yaldo faces felony charges for allegedly killing a Yorkie in Sterling Heights. The incident was caught on video and occurred in November.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 24, 2026, 9:59 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from FOX 2 Detroit

A Violent Confrontation With a Family Pet

Legal proceedings have commenced in Macomb County against a Sterling Heights man accused of a brutal act of animal cruelty that occurred late last year. According to the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, Fouad Yosif Yaldo allegedly targeted his girlfriend's eight-year-old Yorkie, Teddy, during a physical altercation. Investigators claim that Yaldo struck the small animal at least twice with significant force, causing immediate and catastrophic trauma. The severity of the assault left the pet immobile on the ground before the suspect reportedly moved the animal into the arms of its owner.

The Final Moments Captured on Digital Evidence

The prosecution’s case is bolstered by the existence of video footage that reportedly documents the entirety of the fatal encounter. Officials state that the recording shows Yaldo picking up the dog and delivering the forceful blows before realizing the animal was no longer responsive. In a distressing sequence described in court documents, the suspect is accused of placing the dying Yorkie into his girlfriend's arms, where the pet eventually expired. This high-definition evidence has played a critical role in the decision to elevate the charges to a felony level.

Official Response From the Macomb County Prosecutor

Macomb County Prosecutor Pete Lucido issued a formal statement regarding the case, characterizing the allegations as deeply disturbing. Lucido emphasized that his office maintains a strict policy regarding the abuse or neglect of animals, asserting that pets deserve protection rather than violence. The prosecutor’s office has committed to seeking a conviction that reflects the gravity of the loss and the emotional trauma inflicted upon the pet’s owner. The case is being handled as a priority matter to ensure that justice is served for both the animal and the community.