Man Charged In Slaying Of Wife And Dog Found Competent For Trial

INDEPENDENCE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) -- An Oakland County man charged in the fatal bludgeoning of his wife and dog has been found competent to assist his defense attorney.

The Oakland Press in Pontiac reports that 32-year-old Joseph Mauti faces a March 9 preliminary examination.

Mauti is charged with first-degree murder and animal cruelty.

Deputies investigating a welfare complaint last May found 30-year-old Lindsey Mauti dead on the floor of the family's garage in Independence Township, northwest of Detroit. The dog's body was nearby.

Joseph Mauti and the couple's two young children were inside the house.

© Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.