Arrest Made In Gaston County Animal Cruelty Investigation

Jack Hale,

Update: 2/20/24

According to a news release, Gaston County Police Department have arrested Carl Poston, 23, with two counts of misdemeanor animal cruelty.

Carl Lee Poston Mug

Carl Poston

Original Story: 2/19/24

GASTONIA, N.C. – Gaston County Animal Care and Enforcement (GCACE) is investigating an animal cruelty case involving a black doodle dog with matted fur and a wound on his neck, according to a news release.

Bentley 1

Bentley after grooming

Bentley 2

Bentley after medical evaluation

The release states that on February 17, 2024, GCACE responded to an animal cruelty investigation in reference to a black doodle dog, Bentley, being in need of shelter at a residence. Gaston County police said a community partner helped provide a new dog house, straw bedding and a water bucket for the dog. The release also states that they discovered severely matted fur and a wound on Bentley’s neck which was possibly infected.

A veterinarian told the owner that Bentley would need medical treatment involving sedation, medical grooming and wound treatment which would be received the following day at a full service veterinarian clinic. GCACE said in the release that the animal owner is cooperating with them and that Bentley is being cared for by another party to ensure the proper medical attention is received.

This is an ongoing investigation.