Oakland County woman sentenced for felony animal neglect after dozens of pets rescued

PONTIAC, Mich. – A Pontiac woman has been sentenced for felony animal neglect after dozens of pets were rescued from her home.

In September 2024, 29 dogs and eight cats were removed from Karmen Schooly’s home on Argyle Street. County animal control officers said the animals were found living in abusive and neglectful conditions.

The rescue followed a welfare check prompted by a referral from Pontiac authorities.

The house was condemned by the ordinance department.

In December, a jury found Schooly guilty of felony animal neglect involving 25 or more animals.

On Monday, Feb. 9, Schooly was sentenced to 92 days in jail, with credit for time served, and two years of probation.

The judge also ordered Schooly not to own or care for any animals and that she must surrender any pets to the Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center.