Sheriff Leon Lott announces the arrest of Marie Sky (DOB: 8/2/1974) in connection with an injured dog.
On June 22, 2025, deputies were called to the area of Drexel Lake Rd. for a dog found wandering in the area with a severe neck wound, caused by a metal collar. Neighbors recognized the dog, Milo, and were able to lead deputies to the dog’s owner’s residence. RCSD and Richland County Animal Control made contact with the owner, Marie Sky, who claimed ownership of Milo, and said the metal collar had been put on to keep him from escaping the backyard.
Due to the severity of the wound, Animal Control asked if she would be willing to sign over ownership to them so he could be properly treated. Sky agreed, and they transported Milo to CVETS, where the metal collar had to be surgically removed from Milo’s neck. The wound had gone through all layers of skin around his neck and was embedded in the muscle tissue. CVETS kept Milo comfortable and stabilized until he was transferred to the City of Columbia Animal Services, where a second surgery was performed, removing all the scarred and infected tissue from Milo’s neck and stitching him back up. Milo was kept in the medical unit where he was loved on and monitored as he recovered.
Milo is expected to make a full recovery and live a happy, healthy life. He has been placed in a rescue and is awaiting his forever family!
Marie Sky was charged with one felony count of Ill-Treatment of Animals and is currently awaiting a bond hearing at Alvin S. Glenn.
“Animal cruelty is criminal and will not be tolerated in Richland County,” said Sheriff Lott, “anyone who abuses, neglects, or tortures animals, including those who allow it to happen, will be prosecuted.”
If you have information that an animal is being abused or neglected, please call RCSD at 803-576-3000 or submit a tip anonymously through CrimeStoppers.