HAVELOCK, N.C. — A 19-year-old U.S. Marine stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point has been arrested and charged with felony animal cruelty after police say he brutally killed his 8-month-old Labrador retriever mix.
According to the Havelock Police Department, Lance Corporal Taylor Heinrich, of Havelock, was taken into custody after officers and Havelock Animal Control responded to a report of animal cruelty in the Slocum Village community on October 2.
Investigators determined that Heinrich physically assaulted his dog, named Delilah, striking her until she was unconscious before shooting her with a crossbow. Police say Heinrich then transported the dog’s body more than 20 miles and disposed of it in a wooded section of the Croatan National Forest.
Another 19-year-old, Jasmine Thompson, was also charged for her role in helping dispose of the animal’s remains.
Heinrich is facing one count of Felony Animal Cruelty and was released after posting a $5,000 secured bond. Thompson has been charged with Misdemeanor Animal Cruelty and was issued a $1,000 unsecured bond.
The Havelock Police Department emphasized that it “takes all reports of animal cruelty seriously and remains committed to protecting the safety and welfare of all animals within our community.”
Cherry Point officials confirmed that Heinrich serves as a motor transportation operator with Marine Air Control Squadron 2, and joined the Marine Corps in 2024. According to his social media record, he is originally from Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the case to contact the Havelock Police Department at 252-447-3212.
© 2025 The Salty Soldier. All rights reserved.
Reproduction without written consent is strictly prohibited.
