A Lexington County couple is facing charges in connection with an animal abuse case involving over 100 animals.
According to records, 29-year-old Julia Pickett was held at the Lexington County Detention Center on Wednesday on 14 charges of animal mistreatment. Her partner, 41-year-old Michael Sauer, was also arrested Wednesday and charged with 11 counts of animal cruelty.
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Both are also charged for violating a veterinarian’s article and failing to bury or burying improperly.
According to an incident record acquired by WIS, Pickett’s first arrest occurred after animal control officers and deputies from the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department searched a property on Narrow Way. Sauer was listed in the report as a homeowner with Pickett, although he was not detained or charged at the time.
Authorities asserted that they received a complaint about potential animal abuse at locations purportedly owned by Pickett and Sauer. Lexington County Animal Services stated that several animals collected from their homes had already perished, while others may have to be euthanized despite efforts to offer care.
“Many of the animals were found to be housed in unsanitary conditions in feces and urine-filled crates, kennels, and inside rooms in the homes and buildings on the properties,” Lexington County Animal Services Director Brittany Jones said in a statement.
Jones also said that “a large number of veterinary supplies and drugs restricted by law for use only by a licensed veterinarian” were discovered at their residence.
Authorities stated that Sauer’s veterinarian license has been suspended since May 23, 2025. It was not immediately obvious whether Pickett had a license.
Pickett and Sauer were still being held at the Lexington County Detention Center on Thursday afternoon, according to documents.
This is a developing story.
