MSU Vet School Professor Facing Animal Neglect Charge - WLNS TV 6 Lansing - Jackson | Your Local News Leader

An assistant professor at Michigan State University's Veterinary School waived her preliminary rights this afternoon in Clinton County's 65-A District Court.

55-year-old Patricia Schenck is facing animal cruelty charges after police found 19 pets, that police say, were in poor condition inside her home north of DeWitt. That included two cats and 17 dogs, one of which had to be euthanized.

Schenck's attorney, Mick Grewal, tells a different version of the story.

"One of the animals was euthanized; that was through the consent of my client, because one of the animals was in poor health, but it was elderly, all these animals were elderly," said Grewal.

Grewal says he's focused on the case, and is negotiating with the prosecuting attorney, seeking the best outcome for his client and the animals.

"In this case we have ongoing negotiations with the prosecutor. It did not benefit, in my opinion either party to go forward with the examination, as we continue to work towards a resolution in this case that's beneficial to the animals, as well as my client," Grewal said.

 Grewal waived Schenck's arraigment, and is now waiting for a district court judge to schedule a pre-trial.

Authorities took the animals to two different animal shelters in St. Johns, where they're currently being looked after.

MSU says Schenck didn't work with animals at the college and is now suspended with pay until the investigation is over.

Stay with 6 News as we continue to follow this developing story.