An Ayer woman has been found guilty on 30 counts of animal cruelty after authorities seized 162 emaciated and wounded animals from her property, where several others were discovered dead and decomposing

Ruth Maxant-Schulz , 78, was convicted on Tuesday after a five-day trial, according to the Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office. She received a suspended 18-month sentence in jail and two years of probation, to run concurrently.

Maxant-Schulz cannot own pets or engage in farming under the terms of her sentence and must undergo a mental health evaluation.

The charges stem from a Feb. 20, 2024, well-being check at Maxant-Schulz’s home on Taft Street in Ayer. When officers arrived, they found several animals roaming outside, including two ponies, goats and ducks.

Inside and outsi

See Full Page