Lancaster County animal shelter probe turned over to SLED

LANCASTER, S.C. — The criminal investigation of an employee at the Lancaster County animal shelter has been turned over to state investigators, officials told our news partners at The Herald.

The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, which began investigating an employee at the animal shelter last week, has turned that investigation over to the State Law Enforcement Division, sheriff’s spokesman Doug Barfield said.

Barfield said last week that the sheriff's office began investigating after receiving a call during which someone made allegations against a shelter employee, The Herald reported. Details of the investigation have not been released, but Barfield said the investigation did not involve the health or welfare of any animals.

Kathryn Richardson, a SLED spokeswoman, confirmed with The Herald on Monday that the agency was investigating the case, which she said involved “allegations of financial irregularities.”

No charges have been filed, and officials have not identified the employee, who is on administrative leave.

The county has had people in the shelter every day feeding and caring for the animals, The Herald reported. Until further notice, all fees for adoption or reclaiming will be waived.

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