‘Animals had already died’ when woman was arrested for mistreatment of animals
A Lexington County woman was arrested on New Year’s Eve after investigators with Lexington County Animal Services found 100 animals living in unsafe conditions, some of whom were already dead.
The arrest of 29-year-old Julia Evans Pickett came after investigators received information regarding concerns about animal welfare at two properties that Pickett occupied, according to a press release from the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department. She’s charged with two counts of felony ill-treatment of animals.
“The conditions we observed on the properties prompted the removal of all of the animals for their safety and care,” Brittany Jones, director of Lexington County Animal Services, said in a statement.
Jones said the animal services department removed around 100 animals and that “some animals had, unfortunately, already died.” She noted that more animals might not survive or might have to be humanely euthanized.
The release, sent by the sheriff’s department on behalf of the animal services division, did not specify what types of animals were involved, but noted that there were “various species of animals.” A reporter with The State asked for clarification and is awaiting a response.
The animals that were removed from Pickett’s properties are receiving medical care, Jones said in the release. She said the investigation is ongoing and more charges against Pickett are expected.
Prior to her arrest on Dec. 31, Pickett had been charged more than 10 times between April 2024 and July 2025 for violating county ordinances related to animals, according to county court records. In that time frame, she’d been charged eight times for “permitting livestock and poultry to run astray” and twice for violating the county’s “restraint and confinement” ordinance which places certain restrictions on dog owners within the county.
Pickett was taken to the Lexington County Detention Center and later released after she met the requirements of her bond. The case will be prosecuted by the 11th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
