A controversial new appointment in Union County, North Carolina has sparked backlash across the community. The hiring of James Hampton as Deputy Chief of the Union County Sheriff’s Office has reopened wounds from a 2021 incident involving alleged mistreatment of his police K-9, Zuul. Though no charges were filed at the time, many residents are questioning the decision and calling for accountability.
The Incident That Sparked National Attention
In 2021, while working with the Salisbury Police Department, James Hampton was filmed in a disturbing video showing aggressive behaviour towards his K-9 partner, Zuul. In the video:
Hampton is seen yelling at Zuul after the dog exited a police vehicle.
He then forcefully jerks the leash, lifts the dog by the neck, and slams him into the side of the vehicle.
Once the dog is back inside the car, Hampton allegedly slaps and shoves him further into the back seat.
A bystander can be heard in the background saying, “We’re good, no witnesses.”
Although the video caused widespread concern and criticism, a formal investigation did not lead to criminal charges.
Public Outcry and Resurfacing Backlash
Following the video’s release, a Change.org petition was launched demanding that Hampton lose his badge. The petition has since gathered over 128,000 signatures, reflecting widespread public anger and concern.
Now, with his recent appointment as Deputy Chief in Union County, the video and petition have resurfaced. The backlash has grown even louder, with many in the community questioning whether someone involved in such a disturbing incident should be in a leadership role.
Union County resident Landon Trull voiced his concern, stating:
“Animal cruelty is one of the worst crimes as it shows the true nature of a person… When faced with an innocent creature, your actions show your true character.”
Sheriff Responds to the Controversy
On Wednesday, August 20, 2025, the Union County Sheriff’s Office released an official statement via social media at 12:19 p.m. In the statement, Sheriff Eddie Cathy defended the hiring decision, saying:
There was a full investigation after the 2021 incident.
It was determined there was “insufficient evidence” to charge Hampton with a criminal offense.
Hampton will remain in his position and is currently working in the Patrol Division’s field training program, where he is learning Union County’s policies and procedures.
Sheriff Cathy made it clear that there are no plans to fire Hampton, stating that the department stands by its decision to hire him.
Community Still Demanding Accountability
Despite the sheriff’s statement, many residents remain frustrated. Social media comments, local community posts, and animal rights groups continue to question the judgment behind placing someone with a controversial past in a top law enforcement position.
Critics argue that leadership roles require not just a clean legal record, but public trust — and Hampton’s appointment may have damaged that.
As Union County navigates the controversy surrounding James Hampton’s hiring, the larger issue remains: how should past behaviour, especially involving potential cruelty, factor into public service appointments? While the legal system found no grounds for charges, the public continues to debate whether Hampton’s conduct reflects the values expected of a leader in law enforcement.
