06/02/2026
STATEMENT FROM CORY KELLER, FRIENDS FOR ANIMALS OF METRO DETROIT
"The FAMD team was devastated to learn what happened to Ice Cream Man when we heard the news about him this past Thursday. He was an amazing dog who touched the lives of so many of our staff, and the loss of any animal in such heinous circumstances is deeply painful. We are fully cooperating with the Dearborn Police Department and the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, providing any information available to assist in their active investigation and support their case.
As an organization dedicated to animal welfare, we pour our hearts, resources, and expertise into every animal that comes through our doors. Our goal is always to help each animal find a safe, loving, and wonderful home. We maintain rigorous adoption procedures, conduct follow-ups, and strive to remain a resource for adopters long after an animal leaves our care. When we learned of this tragedy, we did what any compassionate organization would do, we began to look inward. We questioned ourselves, reviewed our processes, and examined every step of our adoption procedures. We take our responsibility seriously, and we never stop looking for ways to improve.
There is misinformation circulating regarding that the adoption fee must have been waived as to why he chose him, which is not the case, and that Mr. Nelson was the adopter, which is also not true.
Please know that we share the anger, frustration, and grief that many in our community are feeling. We truly appreciate the support from so many organizations like Bark Nation, Saginaw Animal Care & Control, Friends of DACC, Dog Aide, Oliver's Foundation, Waggin' Tails, Feline Fund, and people who have reached out to us during this extremely difficult time. We hope the legal process results in accountability and justice for Ice Cream Man and helps advance efforts to protect animals from cruelty and neglect."
