Autumn Farm Sanctuary, a sanctuary for rescued animals in Cedarburg, is facing allegations of animal mistreatment. Former volunteers have raised concerns about neglected animals, inadequate food and water, and exceedingly unsanitary living conditions. The Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation and obtained a search warrant, leading to the removal of all animals from the property. The owners of the sanctuary could potentially face criminal charges.
Animal advocates have taken to social media to expose the alleged mistreatment, with the goal of having the animals either seized or willingly surrendered. Erin Hammock, a former volunteer, stated that while animals passing away is inevitable, the deaths of young and healthy animals at the sanctuary raised red flags. Former volunteer Julie Gilmore described the filthy conditions, recalling a distressing incident where a one-year-old goat was found wrapped in a tarp and deceased.
In 2021, TMJ4 showcased Autumn Farm Sanctuary as a haven for rescued animals, but recent photos and videos show a vastly different reality. Gilmore and Hammock believe that the sanctuary initially had noble intentions, but something has since gone awry, evidenced by the decline in the animals’ well-being.
Evidence gathered during the February visit by Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Detectives included a report from a veterinarian detailing the lack of fresh water, empty feed bins, wounded animals, and filthy living conditions. Despite follow-ups, not all animals had been re-homed as directed.
After reviewing the investigation’s findings, Undersheriff Marshall Hermann submitted a request to the Ozaukee County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution on charges of animal mistreatment against the owners of the sanctuary. Gilmore’s recent visit to the farm revealed the lack of progress in addressing the concerns, with over a dozen animals still residing in unsanitary conditions.
The Ozaukee County District Attorney’s Office is currently assessing the case and will make a decision on whether to file animal mistreatment charges against the sanctuary owners after receiving further information from law enforcement.
