NEW BERN, N.C. — A New Bern man has been charged with felony animal cruelty following an investigation by the Craven County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said deputies were alerted to a case of animal cruelty on Dec. 10, 2025. The Criminal Investigation Bureau identified 31-year-old James Cody Laurine as the suspect.
Officials reported that Laurine brought a dog to a veterinarian for treatment, claiming the injuries occurred during a training session the previous day. However, the veterinarian found the dog was bleeding from the mouth and had multiple injuries inconsistent with Laurine’s account. The dog required surgery and was later released to its owner for ongoing care.
Laurine was arrested on Dec. 19, 2025, charged with felony animal cruelty, and released the same day on a $50,000 unsecured bond. He is scheduled to appear in Craven County court on Monday, Dec. 22.
