Fort Bragg soldier denied lower bond in animal abuse case
FAYETTEVILLE (WTVD) -- A Fort Bragg soldier charged for stealing, killing and slitting two dogs' throats was denied a lower bond Friday afternoon.
Staff Sgt. Al Charlie, 32, faces a number of felony animal cruelty charges. They are tied to this week's discovery of two dogs in trash bags off Camden Road. Animal Control officers said the dogs bled to death after their throats had been cut.
Animal control officers said the Labrador mixed breed and her puppy belonged to an acquaintance of Charlie.
If convicted, Charlie faces up to 23 years in prison.
On Friday, Cumberland County district court Judge Stephen Stokes denied Charlie a lower bond because he is currently on probation for a 2012 child assault charge. His bond remains at $70,000.
If Charlie posts bond, he would be released to military authorities and banned from being around pets.
Charlie requested the option of a court-appointed attorney. Considering his $70,000 annual income, Stokes initially denied the option. Carl Ivarsson, a Fayetteville attorney representing Charlie in an unrelated case, asked the court to keep that option open considering Charlie's dependents and financial obligations.
It was unclear who would ultimately represent Charlie.
Two women who attended Charlie's first appearance declined to identify themselves or speak with media.
Charlie's next court appearance is May 27.
