WINSTED — A 28-year-old Winsted woman was arrested Tuesday morning on two counts of animal cruelty following an investigation that led to the seizure of 24 dogs.
Sarah Smolak of 86 Strong Terrace was taken into custody at approximately 6:30 a.m. when Winchester Police officers served two arrest warrants at her residence.
The arrest stems from an ongoing investigation conducted by the Winchester Police Department in cooperation with the Town of Harwinton Regional Animal Control Department and Animal Control Officers from the State of Connecticut Department of Agriculture.
Smolak was held on a $150,000 court-set bond, which consisted of $75,000 for each warrant.
She was transported to the Litchfield Judicial District Courthouse GA #18 in Torrington Tuesday morning.
The 24 dogs seized during the investigation are being examined, housed and cared for at local facilities.
Authorities noted that advocacy groups and law enforcement partners from as far away as Long Island, New York provided information and assistance during the investigation.
Winchester Police are asking anyone with relevant information to contact Detective James Crean at jcrean@townofwinchester.org or the Winchester Police Department at (860) 485-9051 Ext. 1129.
Information can also be provided to Harwinton Regional Animal Control at animalcontrol@harwinton.us or (860) 379-2721.
