Sourced from public government registries (TN TBI, Henrico County VA) and publicly reported convictions.×This is NOT an official government source — always verify with the linked source record.×If you witness abuse, call 911 or your local Animal Control.×Information shown is as-of the date the source registry was last observed.×Sourced from public government registries (TN TBI, Henrico County VA) and publicly reported convictions.×This is NOT an official government source — always verify with the linked source record.×If you witness abuse, call 911 or your local Animal Control.×Information shown is as-of the date the source registry was last observed.×Sourced from public government registries (TN TBI, Henrico County VA) and publicly reported convictions.×This is NOT an official government source — always verify with the linked source record.×If you witness abuse, call 911 or your local Animal Control.×Information shown is as-of the date the source registry was last observed.×
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SC-SAUER-PICKETT-2026

Michael Terence Sauer & Julia Evans Pickett

Crime Type
Hoarding
Jurisdiction
Lexington, South Carolina
Conviction Year
2026
Animals Affected
~100 dogs, cats, poultry, livestock
Case Summary

Charged Jan 14, 2026 in Lexington County, SC with felony/misdemeanor ill-treatment of animals, torture, and improper burial of dead animals. ~100 dogs, cats, poultry, and livestock seized in unsanitary conditions across multiple properties; some animals died, others were contagiously ill. Pickett faces 12+ cruelty counts plus two burial charges.

Details

Sauer is a suspended veterinarian. Six-figure bonds set Jan 15, 2026; charges consolidated for General Sessions Court. Preliminary hearings expected Feb 12, 2026. Investigation remains active with potential additional charges.

Sentencing

PENDING — Awaiting trial in Lexington County General Sessions Court.

SourceNews source
FITSNews — Lexington County animal cruelty case (Jan 2026)

Sourced from journalism; verify against the underlying court record before taking any action.

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Status
On Trial — Pending
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