April 17. A Cornelius Police officer who resigned from the force today was arrested for animal cruelty.

Here is what police say happened: Police responded to a Domestic Disturbance on Saturday, April 12, at approximately 8:25 p.m. In the course of investigating claims arising from the Domestic Disturbance allegations, Cornelius Police Officer Michael Ruballo was placed on administrative leave while a criminal investigation and internal investigation were initiated.

M. Ruballo

During the criminal investigation, evidence was recovered which led to charges being brought against Ruballo and his wife. A warrant for his arrest was obtained for violating NCGS 14-360 Cruelty to Animals. A warrant for his spouse was also obtained for violating NCGS 14-360 Cruelty to Animals and NCGS 14-286.2 Interfering with Emergency Communication. The results of the investigation to date do not support other charges related to the Domestic Disturbance incident.

Ruballo has been employed with the Cornelius Police Department for four years and was assigned as a School Resource Officer at Bailey Middle School. He resigned on April 17, 2025.

He was arrested at the Mecklenburg County Jail the same day.

Quotable

“If my agency is put in a position where we have to investigate and arrest one of our officers, we will. Our morals, values, ethics, and sworn duty will not be compromised in our service to our community,” Police Chief David Baucom said.

This is an active, ongoing investigation, and no further details were released.