Pontiac Woman Sentenced for Animal Neglect

February 11,2026

A Pontiac,Michigan woman has been sentenced to jail and prohibited from owning animals after 37 animals were removed from her home in 2024 due to neglect. Karmen A. Schooly,48,received a 92-day jail sentence on Monday,February 10,2026,in Oakland County Circuit Court.

Judge Daniel P. O’Brien also ordered Schooly to surrender any pets currently in her possession and serve a two-year probation period. The sentencing follows an investigation where authorities discovered a large number of animals living in unsuitable conditions.

Oakland County Prosecutor Karen D.McDonald announced the sentence, emphasizing the seriousness of the case.”This outcome sends a clear message that animal neglect will not be tolerated in oakland County,” she stated. The ban on animal ownership is intended to prevent future instances of animal suffering.

Details regarding the specific conditions the animals were found in have not been released,but the Oakland County ProsecutorS Office confirmed the animals received necessary veterinary care following their removal from the property.