Target: Sarah Kirkman, District Attorney for Iredell County, North Carolina
Goal: Pursue felony-level cruelty charges, consecutive misdemeanor counts, a permanent ban on owning or working with animals, and court-ordered counseling for the groomer allegedly filmed violently abusing dogs.
Authorities are investigating a grooming worker after multiple clips allegedly captured her spinning a dog by its neck, slapping it several times, and punching it repeatedly. The footage, shared online by a woman whose sister worked at the facility, purportedly exposes what happened behind closed doors at a pet resort and spa near Charlotte. The worker’s face remains blurred because, according to officials, she has not yet been charged.
The whistleblower allegedly turned to video after verbal reports to the business owner were said to have gone nowhere. More than one clip apparently depicts forceful, aggressive handling that could cause pain, injury, or terror for animals trapped on grooming tables. The owner has since stated that the employee no longer works there and called the behavior “totally unacceptable,” but that does not erase the alleged harm or the risk posed if such conduct goes unpunished.
Meaningful accountability is crucial. Strong prosecution, significant penalties, and a lifelong prohibition on contact with animals would help safeguard pets and deter others who might consider similar acts. Sign below to demand the prosecuting authority employ every applicable charge and penalty permitted by North Carolina law to address the alleged cruelty shown in these videos.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear District Attorney Kirkman,
We are deeply disturbed by circulated videos that allegedly show a groomer spinning a dog by its neck, slapping it repeatedly, and punching it several times while on the job. Additional clips reportedly depict similarly aggressive handling of other dogs. Such images portray deliberate, painful treatment of defenseless animals and warrant an unequivocal prosecutorial response.
North Carolina statutes provide tools for addressing animal cruelty with serious consequences. We respectfully urge your office to file and pursue the highest appropriate charges—including felony animal cruelty where supported—seek consecutive sentences for each count, and request a lifetime ban on owning, keeping, or working with animals. Mandatory counseling or anger‑management treatment should also be part of any resolution to help prevent future harm.
A vigorous prosecution will affirm that abuse caught on camera will not be minimized or ignored, especially in businesses entrusted with beloved companions’ care. Please act decisively to ensure justice and protect other animals from similar suffering.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Tiiheng Biki
