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Eminent Domain Attorneys Near Me Aiken, SC
Most people who buy a home and the land it sits on expect that it will be theirs for as long as they choose to reside there. They may choose to pass that home and land along to children or other family members once they pass. It's a very common scenario, but for some residents of Charleston County, it may not be possible due to a highway expansion. Once the expansion starts, these residents could actually lose their land. And while you wouldn't think such an action would be legal in America, truth is often stranger than fiction.
The newly proposed expansion on Highway 41 will expand the highway to two lanes, increasing it to a total of four lanes on most of the roadway and from two to three lanes near the Phillips Community. The project would also start construction of Laurel Hill Parkway - a two-lane road that intersects through the outskirts of Laurel Hill County Park. For the Phillips Community, which sits adjacent to the highway, it could mean the loss of residents' homes and land that have been in their families for generations.
So, what can people like those in the Phillips Community do? They don't want to lose their homes or bear the burden of significantly more traffic around them. On their own, the options can be dour. But with the help of eminent domain attorneys Near Me Aiken, SC, these families can receive the just compensation they deserve.
Understanding Eminent Domain in South Carolina
Remember that when you purchase or are given a plot of land, your property rights aren't as absolute as you may think. According to the United States Constitution, the government has the authority to take your property under specific circumstances. Essentially, your property rights are not absolute.
What's interesting is that the government's ability to take your property is actually stated in the Constitution. Even though the Constitution states that "private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation," in essence, this means the government can take your property if the intended use is valid and they compensate you fairly. The Supreme Court upheld this view in 1876, interpreting that the government had this power based on the Constitution. Eminent domain was frequently used during the construction of the nation's railroad system, often without sufficient limitations on the government.
Unfortunately, many South Carolina residents end up being on the wrong end of the cost-benefit analysis when it comes to fair compensation. That's why, if the government is trying to take your land, it's so important to get in touch with eminent domain attorneys Near Me Aiken, SC, as soon as possible. That way, you have someone by your side for any legal proceedings or disputes. At Lauren Taylor Law, we have a proven track record of achieving positive outcomes for our clients in cases where the government has failed to fulfill its legal responsibilities.
- How Can the Government Take Your Property?
- The Process of Eminent Domain in South Carolina
- What Constitutes "Public Use" of Your Land in South Carolina?
- Partial and Easement Taking of Your Land in South Carolina
- Under Eminent Domain, You Must Be Paid Fair Market Value
- How the Government Condemns Your Land with Its Actions
- What Should You Do if Your Land Can Be Taken by the Government?
- Top 3 Reasons to Hire an Eminent Domain Lawyer in South Carolina
- Eminent Domain Attorneys Near Me Aiken, SC Fighting for Your Rights
How Can the Government Take Your Property?
There are typically two different ways that the government may take your property. Those include:
- Inverse Condemnation: This happens when you must take action and declare that your property or land was taken (even though you may still own it) so that you may receive compensation.
- Directly: This happens when the government takes explicit action to own your property.
In both scenarios, you could be forced into litigation in order to protect your rights, even though you had no plans on doing so.
The Process of Eminent Domain in South Carolina
When the government wants to acquire your land, they will typically begin by making a formal offer to buy your property. At this point, you may have the opportunity to negotiate with them. If you decide that selling your property is the best option, it's important to work towards reaching an agreement with the government on the sale price. This isn't always a straightforward process because the government may not be willing to offer you a fair amount.
To determine the price of your property, the government will have their appraiser assess the value of the property. This appraiser functions much like an adjuster for an insurance company, many of whom offer lowball pricing. You should know that you have the right to hire your own appraiser to determine an independent valuation. This is often the best course of action if you're considering selling to the government.
If you choose not to sell to the government, they may proceed by filing a lawsuit to initiate the condemnation process. At this point, you can challenge the taking itself by working with eminent domain attorneys Near Me Aiken, SC. You can also ask the court to determine the fair market value of the property if the government's valuation is lower than what you believe is fair.
Limits to Eminent Domain in South Carolina
While the government can use its power to take your land, there are limits on its ability to do so. Namely:
- The government must pay landowners a fair market price for their property.
- The land the government takes must be for public use.
As such, there are two reasons why you can sue the government as part of an eminent domain case:
- The government won't compensate you fairly for your property.
- The government is taking your land but not for public use.
Given the history of these cases, you can never trust the government to act fairly. Why? Because local officials often have interests in such matters, and your rights are getting in their way. Sometimes, the only viable route you have is to lawyer up and fight the case in court.
The Process of Eminent Domain in South Carolina
When the government wants to acquire your land, they will typically begin by making a formal offer to buy your property. At this point, you may have the opportunity to negotiate with them. If you decide that selling your property is the best option, it's important to work towards reaching an agreement with the government on the sale price. This isn't always a straightforward process because the government may not be willing to offer you a fair amount.
To determine the price of your property, the government will have their appraiser assess the value of the property. This appraiser functions much like an adjuster for an insurance company, many of whom offer lowball pricing. You should know that you have the right to hire your own appraiser to determine an independent valuation. This is often the best course of action if you're considering selling to the government.
If you choose not to sell to the government, they may proceed by filing a lawsuit to initiate the condemnation process. At this point, you can challenge the taking itself by working with eminent domain attorneys Near Me Aiken, SC. You can also ask the court to determine the fair market value of the property if the government's valuation is lower than what you believe is fair.
Limits to Eminent Domain in South Carolina
While the government can use its power to take your land, there are limits on its ability to do so. Namely:
- The government must pay landowners a fair market price for their property.
- The land the government takes must be for public use.
As such, there are two reasons why you can sue the government as part of an eminent domain case:
- The government won't compensate you fairly for your property.
- The government is taking your land but not for public use.
Given the history of these cases, you can never trust the government to act fairly. Why? Because local officials often have interests in such matters, and your rights are getting in their way. Sometimes, the only viable route you have is to lawyer up and fight the case in court.
What Constitutes "Public Use" of Your Land in South Carolina?
Landowners commonly contest whether the taking is genuinely for public use. There are constraints on the government's actions and the reasons for which they can seize your land. The interpretation of these terms by the courts often favors the government. "Public use" does not simply mean that your property would be open to the general public. Instead, the term is more akin to "for the benefit of the public."
Historically, the government expropriated private lands for projects such as bridges and highways. Numerous legal battles arose during the period when the nation was constructing its railroad system. In these instances, the courts typically interpreted "public use" more broadly.
Some of the most common reasons why government landtaking is upheld include the building of structures like:
- Pipelines
- Highways
- Public Buildings
- Utilities
- Railroads and Transit Lines
These are the more "traditional" uses of eminent domain, where the public use would be less in question. However, the law also permits certain utilities to wield the power of eminent domain. For instance, in a recent case in South Carolina, Dominion Energy was granted the authority to acquire homes in order to construct an energy pipeline.
Regrettably, governments have historically tended to misuse this authority, and some courts have even condoned such actions. As an example, courts in Toledo, Ohio, allowed 83 homes to be taken from residents in order to construct a manufacturing plant for Chrysler, which said the plant would create jobs for the public.
If the government is trying to take your land, you should never give up on your property. By working with eminent domain attorneys Near Me Aiken, SC, you may be able to stop them by challenging the taking itself. You can also challenge the purpose of the taking and argue that the reason for "public use" is really for private use.
Partial and Easement Taking of Your Land in South Carolina
Many people worry about the government taking over their entire piece of land. However, in some cases, the government may not need all your property and might not want to compensate you for it. They may only require a portion of your land.
In such instances, the government not only has to pay you for the part of the land they are taking, but they also have to compensate for the decreased value of the remaining land that you still own. Additionally, the government may seek to obtain an easement on your land through eminent domain. This easement could be for utilities or access to another area. Once again, the government must compensate you for the land taken and for the reduction in value of the rest of your property.
Under Eminent Domain, You Must Be Paid Fair Market Value
In essence, fair market value represents the amount a willing buyer would offer to a seller for their property. While this concept seems straightforward, applying fair market value in reality can be quite challenging. In many instances, negotiating with the government may be necessary to receive proper compensation for your land. Just like any negotiator, the government typically begins with a low offer and anticipates a counteroffer from you to reach a mutual agreement. Rarely does the government present its best offer right from the start.
Several valuations may be considered to determine your property's fair market value:
The amount of income your property could have produced
Comparison of sales to other similar properties in the area that were recently sold (there could be disagreements pertaining to what is comparable)
The amount of money it would cost to replace your property (and the structures built on it) minus depreciation
In reality, during a trial, both you and the government would have valuation experts testify. First, you'd have to choose the relevant valuation, which the government might dispute. Then, you'd need to apply the appropriate valuation method. There might be a significant difference between your numbers and the government's.
However, even if you couldn't prevent the seizure of the property, many have successfully challenged the government's valuation of their property. Property owners have compelled the government to pay more, and our team of eminent domain attorneys Near Me Aiken, SC, has represented many of them in the legal process over the years.
How the Government Condemns Your Land with Its Actions
- The government may not need to attempt to seize your land to potentially owe you money. There are situations where government actions could prevent you from using your land. In many ways, the government has the authority to dictate how you can use your property. They can enact laws and zoning regulations that limit your property usage. To constitute a regulatory taking, the government's actions must completely prevent you from using your land for any economic purpose.
- The government may have a valid justification for its regulations. However, when it comes to compensating you for your land, the government's intentions are irrelevant. What matters is the impact the regulation has on your land usage.
- In addition to regulatory taking, the government may take your land if its actions have caused damage to your property. For example, a neighboring construction project could have flooded your property. They might have trespassed on your land, either temporarily or permanently. This type of taking is referred to as a "de facto" taking, and the government still needs to compensate you when it happens.
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What Should You Do if Your Land Can Be Taken by the Government?
Typically, you'll receive notice regarding the potential acquisition of your property through a letter. But if you're like the residents of the Phillips Community, you might have already heard murmurs that something might happen to your land. If you suspect or find out that the government plans to take your land through eminent domain, you need the help of seasoned eminent domain attorneys Near Me Aiken, SC, right away.
The truth is that the government can be just as challenging to deal with as an insurance company. Despite your constitutional rights, they might try to conceal information or offer far less compensation than your property is worth.
In an eminent domain lawsuit, you're essentially challenging the government. While some courts might show some level of deference to the government, they are not given free rein to do as they please. It's within your rights to stand up and contest the government's actions if they violate your rights. But to fight back effectively, your best bet is to work with an eminent domain lawyer from Lauren Taylor Law.
Your attorney will assess the best legal approach for your case, which could involve suing the government or vigorously defending against their lawsuit. You could also negotiate compensation, either before or after the case goes to court.
Top 3 Reasons to Hire an Eminent Domain Lawyer in South Carolina
If you receive notice that your property is being targeted for eminent domain action, also known as condemnation, it's important to seek advice from an eminent domain attorney. Many people won't reach out to a lawyer when dealing with this kind of legal issue because they:
- Mistakenly believe that the government has their best interests at heart and will actually offer fair compensation
- Feel intimidated and believe they must cooperate
- Believe that the taking of their land is really for "public good."
Unfortunately, these assumptions are rarely, if ever, true. In fact, you may actually be more vulnerable and at risk than you originally thought. This misunderstanding illustrates exactly why you should enlist the services of a reputable eminent domain attorney. With the assistance of a legal expert who is well-versed in South Carolina eminent domain law, property owners can safeguard their rights and secure maximum compensation.
Here are the top three ways an eminent domain lawyer can help:
1. Help You Get Just Compensation
It's important to keep in mind that the initial offer from the government for your property is often the lowest amount they think they can get away with. This rarely represents the full and fair compensation you deserve. An attorney has the expertise and resources to ensure that you receive proper compensation for the value of your property, including relocation expenses and more.
In some instances, an eminent domain attorney may be able to secure a higher amount than what the government is proposing. The eminent domain lawyers at Lauren Taylor Law are dedicated to safeguarding your rights and protecting your property
2. Help You Understand Your Rights
Government agencies are not permitted to simply take any property they desire. According to the 5th Amendment, they must prove that the condemnation is genuinely for public use and meets other specific criteria. You have the right to demand that the state fulfill these criteria before seizing your property. Plus, if only a portion of your property is necessary to complete the project, you have the right to safeguard the ownership of the remaining part of your property.
3. Provide Guidance Through the Complicated Process of Eminent Domain in South Carolina
Eminent domain cases and their related laws can be quite intricate and overwhelming for the average property owner. You shouldn't be expected to grasp all the technical terms, and you certainly shouldn't be penalized for not fully understanding the process. That's why having an experienced eminent domain lawyer by your side is valuable on many levels. A skilled eminent domain attorney will assist you through each stage in plain language that you can grasp. With an eminent domain attorney advocating for you throughout your case to safeguard your rights, you stand a better chance of receiving the compensation you rightfully deserve.
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Eminent Domain Attorneys Near Me Aiken, SC Fighting for Your Rights
843-790-9009If the government takes your property or prevents you from using it, you have the right to file a lawsuit. The law provides you with the opportunity to stand on equal ground with our government, allowing your lawyer to advocate for your rights in court.
At Lauren Taylor Law, our eminent domain lawyers step in so you don't get pushed around. Our goal is to fight the government on your behalf, so you get the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today to learn more about eminent domain in South Carolina and how our firm can help.
Latest News Near Me Aiken, SC
Aiken, SC – Scam Alert: Sheriff Warns of Fake Court Calls; Scammers Impersonating Deputies This Week
Country Herald Police Reportshttps://countryherald.com/news/aiken-sc-scam-alert-sheriff-warns-of-fake-court-calls-scammers-impersonating-deputies-this-week/
Aiken, SC – Residents across Aiken County are being warned today about a rising phone scam in which callers impersonate members of the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office and demand money over alleged missed court dates.According to the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, multiple citizens have reported receiving calls from individuals claiming to be deputies. In several cases, scammers have allegedly used the actual names of active sheriff’s office employees, making the calls appear more...
Aiken, SC – Residents across Aiken County are being warned today about a rising phone scam in which callers impersonate members of the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office and demand money over alleged missed court dates.
According to the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, multiple citizens have reported receiving calls from individuals claiming to be deputies. In several cases, scammers have allegedly used the actual names of active sheriff’s office employees, making the calls appear more legitimate. The callers tell residents they have missed a court date and must pay immediately to avoid a warrant being issued for their arrest.
Officials emphasized that the Sheriff’s Office will never call and request payment, personal financial information, or other sensitive data over the phone for missed court appearances. Deputies also do not threaten arrest in exchange for immediate payment.
The agency said the scam appears to be part of a broader trend affecting counties across South Carolina, where scammers use spoofed numbers, law-enforcement titles, and urgent language to pressure victims. These tactics are designed to create panic and limit the time a person spends verifying the claims.
Residents who receive one of these calls are advised to hang up immediately, avoid providing any personal information, and contact law enforcement directly using official phone numbers—not numbers provided by the caller. Anyone who has already shared information or made a payment is urged to file a report with the Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say the rapidly circulating scam is active this week and encourage residents to warn family members, especially seniors, who are often targeted.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
Manufacturer Of Specialty Glass Fibers, AGY Expands Aiken County, S.C. Operations
Textile Worldhttps://www.textileworld.com/textile-world/fiber-world/2025/11/manufacturer-of-specialty-glass-fibers-agy-expands-aiken-county-s-c-operations/
COLUMBIA, S.C. — November 18, 2025 —– AGY, a manufacturer of specialty glass fibers, today announced it is expanding its operations in Aiken County. The company’s $12.1 million investment will create 80 new jobs.AGY is an innovator and manufacturer of specialty glass fiber reinforcements, enabling high-performance composite solutions for aviation, defense, electronics, architecture and telecommunications applications that are integral to civilian life and critical to the national security supply chain.Lo...
COLUMBIA, S.C. — November 18, 2025 —– AGY, a manufacturer of specialty glass fibers, today announced it is expanding its operations in Aiken County. The company’s $12.1 million investment will create 80 new jobs.
AGY is an innovator and manufacturer of specialty glass fiber reinforcements, enabling high-performance composite solutions for aviation, defense, electronics, architecture and telecommunications applications that are integral to civilian life and critical to the national security supply chain.
Located at 2556 Wagener Road in Aiken, AGY is expanding the manufacturing capacity of its low-dielectric constant (Low Dk) and low-dissipation factor (Low Df) glass fibers, which are used to enhance the performance, reliance, and durability of semiconductor packaging, high-performance printed circuit boards, electronic systems and high-speed telecommunications equipment.
Operations are expected to be online in the first quarter of 2026. Individuals interested in joining the AGY team should visit the company’s careers page.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development awarded a $200,000 Set-Aside grant to Aiken County to assist with the costs of building renovations.
“Artificial intelligence is transforming how the world operates, and we are proud that AGY in Aiken, S.C., stands as a leader in America’s manufacturing capability for AI technologies.” -AGY CEO Al Ridilla.
Comments Regarding The Expansion
“AGY’s decision to expand operations in Aiken County reflects the impressive reputation of South Carolina’s workforce and business-friendly environment. We are pleased to see the company reaffirming its commitment to our state and bringing 80 new jobs to the community.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“Today’s announcement is another testament to the growing strength of South Carolina’s manufacturing industry. AGY’s $12.1 million expansion in Aiken County is a major reason to celebrate, and we look forward to all it will mean for the people of our state in the years ahead.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“This expansion is a tremendous win for Aiken County, our industrial workforce and for AGY. An investment of this scale reflects AGY’s confidence in our community and affirms Aiken County’s pro-growth, pro-manufacturing policies. AGY has long been a strong corporate neighbor and a key industrial asset for both Aiken County and our nation. The advanced glass fibers produced here support our economy, strengthen critical industries and contribute to our national defense.” -Aiken County Council Chairman Gary Bunker
“AGY’s continued investment in Aiken County is a testament of our community, our workforce and the innovative spirit that drives this region. As the only domestic supplier of these critical glass fiber products, AGY plays a vital role in supporting our nation’s advanced manufacturing and technology industries. We’re proud to see their growth continue right here in Aiken County, where they’ve been a valued corporate partner for more than 60 years.” -Western SC Economic Development Partnership Chairman Gary Stooksbury
Posted: November 18, 2025
Source: South Carolina, Office of the Governor
Christian Science Church building on Whiskey Road to be demolished
Carl Dawsonhttps://www.postandcourier.com/aikenstandard/news/local/aiken-christian-science-demolition-design-review-board/article_5118f1e4-1b8b-4b6c-96e8-229a9ee9bfbd.html
AIKEN — The former home of First Church of Christ, Scientist at 433 Whiskey Road is to be demolished.Aiken’s Design Review Board on Nov. 6 approved Scott and Kimberly Gudith’s application to demolish the structure and maintain landscaping while they develop plans and seek approvals and permits to build a residence on the approximately 1.1-acre lot.A highly visible property on the west side of Whiskey Road between South Boundary Avenue and Easy Street, the structure was built in 1972 and served as a reading roo...
AIKEN — The former home of First Church of Christ, Scientist at 433 Whiskey Road is to be demolished.
Aiken’s Design Review Board on Nov. 6 approved Scott and Kimberly Gudith’s application to demolish the structure and maintain landscaping while they develop plans and seek approvals and permits to build a residence on the approximately 1.1-acre lot.
A highly visible property on the west side of Whiskey Road between South Boundary Avenue and Easy Street, the structure was built in 1972 and served as a reading room for the First Church of Christ, Scientist, which is also known Christian Science Society of Aiken. The church now holds its services at Aiken Senior Life Services, according to its website.
The modern one-story brick building has gabled roof and a spire.
The Gudiths purchased the property in May 2024 for $425,000. In November 2024 the Design Review Board rejected their application to renovate the existing structure into a residence. They reapplied, and in January 2025 the board approved their plans.
But Scott Gudith told the board Nov. 6 that project had become cost prohibitive due to the extent of the damage from Hurricane Helene, and the style and extent of the renovation.
“One of the bigger problems we had, in addition to the cost, was the fact that it was a renovation and the style and the extent of the work we wanted to do, we were so limited on the builders that were wanting to undertake it,” Gudith said.
“We felt the best option for ourselves, for the property, for the surrounding community, would be to demo the property, turn it into a buildable lot, grade it, sod or seed it, irrigate it and keep it manicured, as we do now,” Gudith said. “We work diligently to keep it looking as good as possible now, and we would do the same.”
In the 1990s when Historic District Two was designated by the Aiken City Council, the property at 433 Whiskey Road was listed as being “non-contributing” to the historical character of the district.
Design Review Board guidelines say demolition may be appropriate in the Historic District when the structure does not contribute to the historical or visual character of the district or site.
The Design Review Board unanimously approved the request for demolition and the landscaping plan, and Gudith withdrew his approved plans to renovate the structure into a residence.
Gudith estimated it would take six to eight months to develop plans and apply for new construction to the Design Review Board, but that he expects demolition to take place in about two months.
Aiken County substitute teacher accused of sexual battery with a student
Staffhttps://www.wrdw.com/2025/11/07/aiken-county-substitute-teacher-accused-sexual-battery-with-student/
AIKEN, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) - An Aiken County substitute teacher has been arrested after he was accused of sexual battery, according to law enforcement officials.According to jail reports, Xavier Hamilton, 29, was arrested on Thursday.He is charged with two counts of sexual battery with a student, according to jail records.According to the arrest warrants, he met the 16-year-old victim while she was a student at a “public secondary school” in the district.Between May and June 2025 and July and August 2025,...
AIKEN, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) - An Aiken County substitute teacher has been arrested after he was accused of sexual battery, according to law enforcement officials.
According to jail reports, Xavier Hamilton, 29, was arrested on Thursday.
He is charged with two counts of sexual battery with a student, according to jail records.
According to the arrest warrants, he met the 16-year-old victim while she was a student at a “public secondary school” in the district.
Between May and June 2025 and July and August 2025, Hamilton allegedly engaged in sexual acts with the victim on multiple occasions at his home, the warrants state.
The Aiken County Public Schools says Hamilton was employed by Kelly Services and served as a substitute teacher in the district from May 16 through Aug. 6.
He was terminated on Aug. 18 by Kelly Services after the school district determined he was no longer eligible to substitute, according to school officials.
School officials say law enforcement later learned of allegations against Hamilton for inappropriate conduct involving a student.
The incident report states the sexual battery investigation began in August.
During the investigation, officers spoke to the victim multiple times in regards to the incident.
The reports state officers obtained arrest warrants for sexual assault on a student for Hamilton on Oct. 31.
On Thursday, Hamilton was arrested and booked into the Aiken County Detention Center.
The school district says it and Kelly Services have cooperated fully with law enforcement throughout the investigation.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to rigorous background screening practices and immediate, appropriate action when concerns arise to help ensure safe, supportive learning environments for all students,” said the school district in a statement.
11 ‘severely underweight’ horses seized in Aiken County; woman arrested
Staffhttps://www.wrdw.com/2025/11/06/11-horses-seized-aiken-county-1-person-arrested/
AIKEN, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) - We’re learning new details after 11 horses were seized following an investigation into alleged animal ill-treatment, according to Aiken County Code Enforcement.On Tuesday, Aiken County Code Enforcement, assisted by the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, executed a search warrant after weeks of welfare checks and reports of neglected animals.Officials say Cynthia Vest, 45, of R&B Way, was arrested and charged with 11 counts of ill-treatment of animals. She was booked into the Aiken County De...
AIKEN, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) - We’re learning new details after 11 horses were seized following an investigation into alleged animal ill-treatment, according to Aiken County Code Enforcement.
On Tuesday, Aiken County Code Enforcement, assisted by the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, executed a search warrant after weeks of welfare checks and reports of neglected animals.
Officials say Cynthia Vest, 45, of R&B Way, was arrested and charged with 11 counts of ill-treatment of animals. She was booked into the Aiken County Detention Center on Wednesday.
The investigation began Oct. 14, when officers responded to a complaint reporting abandoned chickens, ducks, dogs and possibly horses.
The caller described trash and packages scattered around the property, a foul odor, and pens with either dirty water or none at all, according to the incident report.
According to the report, Vest and another resident were believed to live at the property.
The caller said Vest had not been seen in two weeks. Officials say jail records show Vest was released from custody in California on Oct. 7.
Officers made several follow-up visits in October. On Oct. 17, deputies made contact with Vest, who was described as “confrontational.”
According to the report, two horses were found on the property with visible ribs and hip bones. One had severe facial swelling and nasal discharge, while the other had a rash around its muzzle.
Vest told officers she had recently retrieved the horses from a boarding facility and claimed they were healthy upon their arrival.
She stated that some of her horses had been under the care of an equine facility in Ridge Spring. Upon returning from California and finding two horses in poor condition, she reportedly retrieved them and took them to that facility.
Vest stated they declined to perform an examination and that she was attempting to locate another veterinarian to assess the animals.
Officers returned several times later in October after they said Vest stopped responding. When officers arrived again on Nov. 4, they said they found the horses’ conditions had worsened, noting open wounds and deteriorating body conditions.
A search warrant was executed the next day.
A veterinarian evaluated all 11 horses, describing them as “severely underweight” — with body condition scores between 1 and 3 out of 9.
At a bond hearing on Thursday, officers requested a GPS monitor, citing Vest’s prior travel history and statements about wanting to sell her home and leave the area.
After the hearing, Vest waived her rights and voluntarily surrendered the horses, providing their names and breeds to authorities, the report states.
Each charge has a bond of $2,000, according to jail bookings.
The report says all 11 were placed in the temporary custody of Aiken Equine Rescue.
In a statement on social media, the rescue says they “could not say no.”
“Right now, these horses need immediate medical care, nutrition and safe shelter. These horses are safe now, but they desperately need your help.”
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