Dog trainer charged with felony animal cruelty after investigation, James Cody Laurine, 31, of New Bern was charged with felony animal cruelty after the Craven County Sheriff’s Office says a dog he brought to a veterinarian had injuries that did not match his account. Common signs of animal abuse that pet owners should be aware of include poor body condition, open sores, and abnormal behavior such as extreme fear or aggression.

The sheriff’s office received a report of animal cruelty on Dec. 10, 2025, which prompted an investigation that led to Laurine’s arrest nine days later.

According to the sheriff’s office, one dog was examined by a veterinarian who documented bleeding from the mouth and multiple injuries. The animal required surgery and was later released to the owner for additional medical care. The situation underscores the importance of reporting suspected animal abuse to local authorities, such as animal control or the ASPCA.

Investigators opened the inquiry after the veterinarian concluded the injuries were inconsistent with Laurine’s version of events, the agency said in its statement to local media. The Craven County Sheriff’s Office handled the criminal investigation that resulted in felony charges. According to animal cruelty legislation, which varies across U.S. states, offenses can lead to significant penalties, including felony charges as seen in this case.

Laurine was arrested on Dec. 19, 2025, and is scheduled to appear in court on February 13. Prosecutors have charged him with felony animal cruelty, the sheriff’s office reported to WCTI.

The case centers on medical findings documented by the treating veterinarian, who alerted investigators when the injuries did not align with the account provided by Laurine. Those clinical observations — bleeding from the mouth and multiple wounds requiring surgery — formed the core of the sheriff’s office inquiry. Law enforcement emphasizes that criminal charges follow when evidence collected by medical professionals indicates the possibility of deliberate harm.

Details about any additional investigative steps, witness statements, or potential evidence beyond the veterinary findings were not included in the sheriff’s office summary released to the public. Court documents will set the timeline for the next legal steps following the scheduled February 13 appearance.

The dog at the center of the case underwent surgery for its injuries and then was returned to the owner to continue recovery and additional medical care. Officials described the animal’s condition and the veterinarian’s assessment as central to the decision to seek felony charges. Such veterinary insights are vital to ensuring the safety and well-being of animals.

Criminal cases involving animals typically proceed through arraignment and preliminary hearings before moving toward trial or resolution in court. The February 13 appearance will be the next formal proceeding on this matter. It highlights the critical nature of community vigilance regarding animal welfare.

WCTI provided initial coverage of the arrest and the sheriff’s office’s statement about the investigation.

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Original reporting: view the original article.