Why are animal cruelty cases on the rise in New Hanover County?

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Animal abuse cases are up in New Hanover County, but are more people actually abusing animals? Sheriff’s office spokesman Lieutenant Jerry Brewer says no.

Lt. Brewer says Sheriff Ed McMahon has ramped up the animal services unit by bringing in a former vice narcotics detective, a former homicide detective, and a deputy certified in canine and feline investigations.

He says more of the department has been trained to recognize the signs of animal cruelty when responding to unrelated calls.

“You could have a deputy go on a domestic assault,” Lt. Brewer said. “They get there and they realize, oh wow, this is an issue here, let’s call in animal services. If you’re hurting an animal in New Hanover County, we’re coming for you.”

Lt. Brewer says they also receive a lot of tips from concerned citizens.

He says each case is different and some pet owners just need to be educated on the laws.