WINCHESTER, CT — A Winsted woman is facing 36 new counts of animal cruelty in a widening investigation that began with the seizure of over two dozen dogs from her residence, according to Winchester police.
Sarah Smolak, 28, turned herself in Thursday on two outstanding arrest warrants issued by the court. These charges are in addition to two counts filed in March after investigators removed more than 25 dogs from her home.
Authorities say conditions inside the residence were alarming. Officers reported strong odors of feces and urine. Many of the dogs were confined to crates—up to five per room. Several were underweight, suffering from infections and injuries. Some animals were unable to walk or required surgery, police said.
Veterinary assessments found that all 27 dogs seized showed signs of distress, weight loss, or poor hygiene due to urine and fecal contamination on their coats.
The investigation is being led by the Winchester Police Department in collaboration with Harwinton Regional Animal Control and the Connecticut Department of Agriculture.
David Reid, 28, was also charged with one count of cruelty to animals in connection to the same case.
Separately, Smolak faces larceny and criminal mischief charges after allegedly causing $100,000 in property damage to a rented Norwalk home. Officials say she violated her lease by keeping 17 dogs, though only five were permitted. Police found structural damage, fouled flooring, and extensive biohazard conditions.
Smolak was released on a $35,000 court-set bond. She is scheduled to appear at Litchfield Judicial District Courthouse in Torrington on April 24.
