CALHOUN, Ga. – A Calhoun man has been arrested in connection with a heartbreaking case of animal abuse and neglect involving a dog named Destiny.
James Claude Castle was taken into custody on June 29, 2025, following the issuance of a warrant by the Calhoun Police Department. The arrest was carried out by the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office. Castle faces charges of animal cruelty after authorities and advocates uncovered a disturbing history of prolonged mistreatment.
The case gained public attention through the efforts of “Justice for Destiny,” an advocacy group that had been working to get Destiny medical care. According to the group, neighbors had made repeated reports over a two-year period, but no action was taken until recently.
“This is a tragic case of neglect and abuse,” the group said in a statement. “Destiny was severely emaciated, with every bone visible, and she suffered in silence despite ongoing pleas from neighbors for help.”
Dr. Okane of My Kids Have Paws treated Destiny and reported numerous signs of severe neglect. The dog had ingested small rocks—likely in a desperate search for food—and had a massive mast cell tumor hanging from her hindquarters. She also suffered from advanced heartworm disease, extreme malnutrition, severe dental issues, and was lactating, indicating repeated breeding.
Destiny died on March 12, 2025, from the effects of the ongoing abuse.
“Despite repeated welfare checks by Calhoun Animal Control, no action was taken,” said Justice for Destiny. “It wasn’t until Calhoun Police Chief Tony Pyle reviewed the evidence and graphic photos that real progress was made. Working with Detective Bentley, they gathered the necessary documentation to bring charges forward.”
“We are grateful this case is finally seeing justice,” Chief Pyle said. “Thanks to interagency collaboration and a fresh look at the facts, we were able to move the investigation forward and make an arrest.”
The heartbreaking story has sparked renewed calls for reform to Georgia’s animal welfare laws. Advocates are urging lawmakers to strengthen protections and ensure more accountability in animal cruelty investigations.
Supporters can join the movement by signing a petition in support of “Destiny’s Law” at: https://www.change.org/DESTINYSLAW
