Target: Sarah Kirkman, District Attorney, Iredell County, North Carolina, USA
Goal: Impose the highest felony penalties and a lifelong animal-handling ban on the groomer allegedly filmed repeatedly punching client dogs.
Co-workers at a Mooresville grooming salon reportedly captured chilling footage that appears to show employee Kirsten Rhea Taylor lifting, striking, and manhandling several defenseless dogs on her grooming table. In the video, at least four pets—brought in merely for routine care—are allegedly pummeled and yanked with aggressive force, their distress unmistakable. The animals’ guardians were unaware their companions might endure such violence behind closed doors.
After the recording surfaced, local animal-services officials initiated an investigation that helped obtain warrants for four counts of felony animal cruelty. Authorities also executed a search warrant at the grooming business to gather further evidence. Despite the gravity of the allegations, the accused was reportedly released on bail of only \$10,000. Without decisive prosecution and meaningful sentencing, similar abuses could continue unchecked in pet-care facilities.
Felony-level consequences, combined with a permanent prohibition on working with or owning animals, would send a clear message: brutal treatment of trusting companion animals will not be tolerated. Sign below to demand vigorous action to help ensure the safety of pets across the community and reaffirm society’s commitment to compassion.
PETITION LETTER:
District Attorney Kirkman,
Recent video evidence reportedly depicts groomer Kirsten Rhea Taylor striking multiple dogs at a Mooresville business. In the footage, at least four client animals appear to be punched, slammed, and manhandled during what should have been routine grooming sessions. Law-enforcement investigators deemed the behavior severe enough to support four felony animal-cruelty charges.
These dogs were left in the salon’s care by guardians who trusted the staff to keep them safe. Instead, the pets allegedly experienced violence and fear—an egregious betrayal that can cause long-lasting physical and psychological harm. Society relies on strong enforcement of cruelty statutes to deter such conduct and to protect animals who cannot speak for themselves.
We respectfully urge your office to pursue the maximum penalties available under North Carolina law, including incarceration, high fines, restitution for veterinary costs, and a lifelong ban on the defendant possessing or working with animals. A vigorous prosecution will demonstrate that Iredell County values the welfare of all living beings and will hold offenders fully accountable.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Goochie Poochie Grooming
