Investigation leads to removal of 100 animals from Lexington County properties

Posted 1/7/26

A Lexington County woman is facing charges after authorities seized 100 animals from two properties when they received reports in late December regarding unsafe living conditions.

According to …

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Investigation leads to removal of 100 animals from Lexington County properties

Posted

A Lexington County woman is facing charges after authorities seized 100 animals from two properties when they received reports in late December regarding unsafe living conditions.

According to Lexington County Animal Services, Julia Evans Pickett, 29, is charged with two counts of felony ill-treatment of animals following an investigation into animal welfare concerns at properties she occupied. 

“Based on the information provided, we investigated and subsequently executed court-authorized search warrants at both properties,” Animal Services Director Brittany Jones said in the media release. 

Jones said that the conditions investigators saw on the properties required the removal of all animals for their safety and well-being. All surviving animals were transported to facilities to receive medical treatment and care.

“Some animals had, unfortunately, already died,” Jones said. “More animals might not survive, or might have to be humanely euthanized despite ongoing care efforts.”

Pickett was located at one of the properties and arrested Dec. 31. She was later released from the Lexington County Detention Center after meeting the conditions of her bond.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges against Pickett are expected, according to the release.

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