MECHANICSVILLE, Md. — A summons was issued Sept. 16, 2025, for a man facing multiple charges, including felony aggravated animal cruelty, after authorities allege he abused a female victim’s cat and assaulted her when she tried to call police. Casey Wayne Bridgett, 28, with no fixed address, was charged following a July 17, 2025, incident that allegedly left the animal severely injured.
According to charging documents filed in St. Mary’s County District Court, the incident occurred when Deputy Jason Smith responded to a residence on Medleys Lane in Mechanicsville for a report of a domestic disturbance. Court records state the complainant told investigators she had been living with Bridgett for about a month when he called her while she was away and threatened to kill her cat because it had scratched him.
Police reports indicate the complainant returned home and found the cat wrapped in a blanket, unresponsive, with blood around its mouth and its eyes closed. The cat was reportedly in a lethargic condition and required immediate veterinary attention. Bridgett had visible scratches on his face and arms that were consistent with feline injuries, according to the report.
When the complainant attempted to call 911 during an argument about the cat’s condition, Bridgett allegedly struck her hand, causing her to drop her phone. He then fled the residence before deputies arrived.
Deputy Smith reported that the cat appeared to be in critical condition and requested Animal Control to respond. The animal was transported to a veterinary clinic, where a report later stated that the cat had injuries consistent with abuse, including fluid in its lungs. The complainant also told authorities that the cat’s whiskers had been unevenly cut.
Further investigation, according to police reports, revealed evidence inside the home, including a recently drained bathtub and blood on the bathroom walls, suggesting an attempt to submerge the cat. No other residents were observed with similar injuries, leading deputies to allege that Bridgett was the only person with apparent aggressive contact with the animal.
Charging documents indicate Bridgett had no fixed address at the time of the incident, which the complainant cited as the reason she allowed him to temporarily stay with her. Attempts to reach Bridgett following the incident were unsuccessful.
Bridgett is charged with four offenses: aggravated cruelty to animals, two counts of animal cruelty, and second-degree assault. Aggravated cruelty to animals carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Each misdemeanor animal cruelty charge carries up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Second-degree assault carries up to 10 years in prison and a $2,500 fine.
A preliminary inquiry is scheduled for Oct. 31, 2025, at 1 p.m. in St. Mary’s County District Court. The State’s Attorney’s Office for St. Mary’s County is prosecuting the case.
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