2 Grosse Ile High School Lacrosse Players Charged With Felonies In Guinea Pig Killing

GROSSE ISLE (WWJ) - Two Grosse Ile High School lacrosse team members have been charged with felonies after they allegedly "sacrificed" a guinea pig before a game.

Wayne County  Prosecutor Kym Worthy said 18-year-old Tanner Coolsaet and 17-year-old Michael Roth, both of Grosse Ile, were  arraigned in 33rd District Court in Woodhaven Monday.

Each is charged with two counts: animals – killing/torturing and conspiracy to commit killing/torturing of animals in the April 30 incident.

According to Worthy, the two teens showed up to a team meeting, at around 11:30 a.m., with a guinea pig in a box. Coolsaet had a knife and slit the guinea pig's throat, Worthy says. Roth then allegedly grabbed the animal and struck it with a small bat. The animal died a short time later.

"The alleged facts in this case illustrate much more than a youthful prank or a pre-game antic. We must take these cases seriously," Worthy said in a statement.

There were reports that team members drank the guinea pig's blood and that they painted their faces with blood as part of a ritual. Worthy did not confirm those details.

Coolsaet and Roth were each released on a $5,000 personal bond on the condition that they don't drink alcohol, do drugs or acquire any pets or other animals. They must also observe a curfew from 11:30 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily.

Their next court date was set for Tuesday, July 26, at 9 a.m.

All of the charges are felonies carrying a maximum four year penalty.

The incident prompted the school to suspend the remainder of its lacrosse season while authorities were investigating. Police have said it didn't happen on school grounds.