A New Bern man has been charged with felony animal cruelty following an investigation by the Craven County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies received a report of animal cruelty on Dec. 10, 2025. An investigation by the Criminal Investigation Bureau identified James Cody Laurine, 31, as the suspect.
Authorities said Laurine brought a dog to a veterinarian for medical treatment and claimed the animal’s injuries occurred during a training session the previous day. However, the veterinarian who examined the dog found she was bleeding from the mouth and had multiple injuries that were inconsistent with Laurine’s account, the sheriff’s office said.
The dog required surgery as a result of the injuries. Officials said the dog’s owner was contacted and the animal has since been released to the owner for additional medical care.
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Laurine was arrested on Dec. 19, 2025, and charged with felony animal cruelty, according to the Craven County Sheriff’s Office. Laurine was given a $50,000 unsecured bond and was released the same day. He is set to appear in court on Monday, Dec. 22.