๐ฆ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ณ๐ณ ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ป ๐๐ฎ๐บ๐ฝ๐ฏ๐ฒ๐น๐น ๐๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฑ: On Monday, July 21, 2025, the Iredell County Sheriffโs Office was contacted by Iredell County Animal Services regarding a disturbing case of animal cruelty. Due to the severity of the allegations and the compelling nature of the evidence, the investigation was referred to the Sheriffโs Office.
The case originated on Friday, July 18, when Animal Services received reports and video footage of abuse by a female employee at a pet grooming business, later identified as Classy Critters. The video, captured by a concerned coworker, depicted the employee repeatedly striking and mishandling dogs during grooming sessions. These dogs were verified to be clients’ pets brought in for routine care.
Detective Sergeant P. Irwin of the Iredell County Sheriffโs Office immediately conferred with Animal Control Officers and reviewed the submitted evidence. The videos revealed troubling behavior involving at least four separate dogs being treated in a clearly aggressive and abusive manner.
The employee was identified as Kirsten Rhea Taylor, 28, of Mooresville, NC. Based on video evidence and corroborating witness statements, Detective Sergeant Irwin obtained arrest warrants charging Taylor with Four Counts of Felony Animal Cruelty.
The investigation remains ongoing. As investigators continue to interview witnesses, contact affected pet owners, and compile further evidence, additional charges may be forthcoming. While these steps take time, they are crucial for ensuring a thorough and just outcome.
Arrest warrants are active for this suspect, and deputies are attempting to locate her.
๐๐ก๐๐ซ๐ข๐๐ ๐๐๐ฆ๐ฉ๐๐๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐๐๐๐๐: “This case highlights the critical importance of coordinated responses in matters involving animal cruelty. While we maintain a strong working relationship with Animal Services and appreciate their role in this investigation, itโs important for the public to understand that the Sheriffโs Office does not oversee Animal Control operations in Iredell County. Since Animal Control is a separate department, certain investigative actions and responses must follow a referral process. We will always take allegations of animal abuse seriously and will hold offenders accountable.โ
Follow the Iredell Sheriff for updates on this arrest.
Anyone with additional information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Iredell County Sheriffโs Office at 704-878-3180
