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Updated: March 29, 2025 @ 12:08 am
ST. MARYS — An investigation is underway after a video recorded at Shearly Pawfect Pets grooming shop on South Michael Street in St. Marys went viral on Wednesday, confirmed City of St. Marys Police Chief Tom Nicklas.
Nicklas also confirmed that several reports were made to the police on Wednesday concerning this situation.
The video appears to show the owner of the shop, Michelle Carpin, being physically aggressive with a dog there for a grooming appointment, who was later identified as a Labrador named Charlie.
Morgan Bacon of St. Marys, who initially shared the video of the incident on Facebook that now has nearly 6,000 shares and around 1,700 comments, said it was sent to her by a friend who did not want to share it himself. Her concern, said Bacon, was that people who considered this a “good option for grooming” needed to see the video. She had no idea it would “blow up so quickly.”
Bacon stressed that she does not condone or support the alleged threats/harassment reportedly being made against the grooming shop and its staff.
“My hope and main goal was for the public to form their own opinion on whether or not they should take their pets to her in the future. I honestly hope the business owner will find a way to grow from this and do better.”
Now, “Justice for Charlie” posts with pictures of the dog in his home are also circulating on social media.
Bacon commended the person who took the video, referring to them as “a true hero.”
Carpin told the Courier Express that she cannot comment directly on the video that is circulating due to the current allegations and ongoing investigation.
“A misconception is that the video was a live taken yesterday, however, it was a recording from Friday of the previous week,” she said. “The clip does not show what happened prior to the incident. Charlie was not injured, and the owners were made aware of the situation on Friday when it happened.
“I am currently cooperating with all legal authorities on the investigation. Threats, harassing phone calls and messages are being reported to the authorities as well.”
Carpin also expressed gratitude toward those who have continued to offer their support throughout this situation.
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