A Poplarville man has been arrested and charged with felony aggravated animal cruelty following an investigation into the fatal shooting of a cat with a crossbow.

The Poplarville Police Department launched an inquiry after a citizen’s cat was killed on Jan. 30 within city limits. With assistance from community members, officers could quickly identify a suspect, authorities said.

On Feb. 4, officers executed a search warrant at the suspect’s residence. As a result of the investigation, Justen Michael Gramling was taken into custody and charged with felony aggravated animal cruelty.

Police Chief Dorn appreciated the community’s involvement and support during the investigation. He also acknowledged those who contributed to a reward fund, which will now be donated to the Pearl River County SPCA. The funds will help provide spaying and neutering services for more than 30 feral cats.