From the Forsyth County Sheriff's Department
FORSYTH COUNTY – On Saturday, June 7, 2025, Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) deputies were approached by an individual who notified them of some dogs in distress inside a locked vehicle. When deputies arrived at the vehicle, located near the intersection of E. 2nd St. and N. Church St., they observed three dogs inside the vehicle.
FCSO deputies immediately recognized the dogs were in distress and made emergency entry into the vehicle by breaking out a window. Winston-Salem Fire Department personnel arrived on scene and began providing treatment to the three dogs in attempt to save them. Unfortunately, emergency personnel were unable to revive two of the dogs. The third was taken to a local emergency veterinary clinic for evaluation and is expected to recover.
The initial investigation revealed that the dogs had been left inside the vehicle overnight with the windows rolled up. The individual responsible for the car reported checking on the dogs earlier that morning and advised the dogs appeared fine at that time. FCSO Animal Services Division deputies responded to the scene and assumed control of the investigation.
Darin Latrelle James, a 23-year-old black male from Kernersville, has been charged with three (3) counts of Misdemeanor Animal Cruelty, NCGS 14-360. Mr. James was given a $10,000 unsecured bond and an initial court date of July 1, 2025, in Courtroom 201 of the Forsyth County Courthouse.
“As pet owners, we must be responsible to ensure the safety and care of our pets. This is a sad incident, I hope it brings awareness that the summer days are upon us, and we must always be mindful— we are their voice, their protection, and all our pets and animals are a part of this community.” -Bobby F. Kimbrough, Jr.
The investigation remains active, and additional details will be released as they become available.
As always, anyone with information related to criminal activity should contact the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office directly at 336-727-2112; anonymously text information, photos, and video via Text-A-Tip at 336-920-8477; or anonymously call Crimestoppers at 336-727-2800 for English or 336-728-3904 for Spanish. To report information concerning juvenile behavior or request juvenile intervention resources, call our Juvenile Intervention and Investigation Team (JIIT) number at 336-917-7030; you may remain anonymous.