Four Charged After Dogs Found in Poor Conditions at Walkertown Home

WALKERTOWN, N.C. — Four people have been charged with animal cruelty after Forsyth County deputies discovered multiple dogs living in deteriorating conditions while serving an unrelated warrant, authorities said.

Investigators with the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office were at a home in the 6000 block of Cain Forest Drive on Feb. 26, 2026, when they observed several dogs suffering from health issues and unsanitary living conditions inside the residence.

The Sheriff’s Office Animal Services Division responded to the scene and took custody of the dogs. The animals were transported to the Forsyth County Animal Shelter for evaluation and care.

Authorities charged the following individuals:

• Belinda Dawn Meyer, 58, of Walkertown, nine counts of misdemeanor cruelty to animals.

• Jonathan Shane Meyer, 31, of Walkertown, two counts of misdemeanor cruelty to animals.

• Charles Edward Devore Jr., 46, of Walkertown, two counts of misdemeanor cruelty to animals.

• Virginia Kathleen Newton, 30, of Walkertown, one count of misdemeanor cruelty to animals.

All charges were filed under North Carolina General Statute 14-360.

“The work we do would not be possible without the assistance of District Attorney Jim O’Neill and the collaboration of the community,” Sheriff Bobby F. Kimbrough Jr. said in a statement. “The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office will not tolerate the cruel and inhumane treatment of our animals, and we will make sure that these offenders are brought to justice.”

The investigation remains ongoing.