Two Coweta County women charged after allegedly performing illegal ‘makeshift’ surgeries on cats

Written by: A. Smith

Published January 19, 2026 @ 10:30 AM ET

COWETA COUNTY, Ga. – Two women are facing criminal charges in Coweta County after investigators say they performed illegal surgical procedures on two cats inside a private home without proper veterinary licenses.

According to the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office, Sarah Benefield, 37, and Camryn Garrard, 27, were arrested and charged with cruelty to animals and unlawful practice of veterinary medicine. Deputies say the women allegedly neutered two male cats at a Newnan residence where Benefield lives, despite neither being licensed veterinarians.

The case was referred to Coweta County from Douglas County, prompting an investigation that led to the arrests, authorities said. Lt. Toby Nix with the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office said the agency investigated the allegations and ultimately brought the charges.

Investigators said Benefield and Garrard were connected to a mobile veterinary clinic, one as a current employee and the other as a former employee. While both may have some veterinary-related experience, deputies stressed neither was authorized under Georgia law to perform surgical procedures.

According to arrest reports, the cats were operated on in a makeshift surgical setting inside the home and allegedly without the use of anesthesia. The two cats, named Calvin and Klein, later required emergency veterinary care from licensed professionals due to complications from the procedures.

Authorities said both animals have since recovered and are not expected to suffer permanent injuries.

Investigators also allege the cats received vaccinations that were signed for by the veterinarian in charge of the mobile clinic. That veterinarian has denied any knowledge of the vaccinations or the alleged surgeries, according to the sheriff’s office.

Benefield and Garrard turned themselves in to Coweta County authorities earlier this week. Jail records show they were booked and later released, though bond details were not immediately available.

The investigation remains active, and officials have not said whether additional charges could be filed.