A Gautier pet groomer that was forced to close its doors earlier this month has been charged with animal cruelty and false pretense.
36-year-old Nichole “Nikki” Anderson surrendered to Gautier Police today after being informed that warrants had been issued for her arrest.
Gautier Police Chief David Bever said Anderson went to the police station for an interview when he was told about the charges and turned himself in. He was taken to the Jackson County jail and bond has not been set pending an initial appearance.
Bever said three animal cruelty charges, all misdemeanors, stem from animals allegedly harmed while in Anderson’s care at Sandi’s Pet Grooming Too.
If convicted of animal cruelty, Anderson would not be allowed to operate a business involving animals.
The false pretense charge was made because Anderson allegedly offered services he was not licensed to perform — namely, riding animals.
The investigation began on January 30, when Gautier Police responded to a Crime Stoppers tip of alleged animal abuse, neglect and illegal riding.
Officers, Gautier Code Enforcement, and a representative from the Jackson County Animal Shelter went to the business on February 1 for further investigation.
The investigation forced Sandi’s Pet Grooming Too to cease all business operations due to multiple city code violations.
