Michigan State University Releases Statement On Physicist Charged With “Penetrating Dog”

LANSING, MI – (THECOUNT) – Joseph Hattey, a Michigan State University Health Physicist, was arrested and charged with two counts of bestiality.

Hattey, 51, a MSU health physicist with the Environmental Health and Safety Unit, was charged for allegedly committing a crime against nature, which carries a 15-year felony.

According to a case report filed by Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette, Hattey allegedly penetrated a dog.

According to the release, Hattey allegedly did not conduct the acts on Michigan State University campus or with an animal owned by the university. The school also said the physicist did not interact with students in the normal course of his workday.

The dog involved in the incident has since been removed from harm and is expected to make a full recovery. The animal is currently in the custody of Ingham County Animal Control awaiting adoption.

MSU responded in a statement saying:

Michigan State University was informed by the MSU Police Department on April 17 of a criminal investigation against Joseph Hattey, a health physicist with the Environmental Health and Safety Unit (note this position does not work with students, patients or animals). Hattey was immediately put on administrative suspension, pending the investigation. The university has been and will continue to cooperate with law enforcement officials on this matter. MSUPD is providing digital forensic support in the investigation. source

The release was issued by MSU Spokesperson, Emily Guerrant.

Hattey was arraigned on Monday and given a $5,000 bond.