Search for Missing Dog Uncovers Animal Cruelty Case; 27 Dogs Rescued
A search for a missing dog in Winsted, Connecticut, has led to the discovery of an alarming case of animal cruelty, resulting in the rescue of 27 dogs and the arrest of a local woman.
Authorities, including the Winchester Police Department, Harwinton Regional Animal Control, and the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office, executed two warrants at the home of Sarah Smolak in the early hours of March 18, 2025. Smolak was arrested on two counts of animal cruelty and taken to Torrington Superior Court, where she is being held on a $150,000 bond.
Search for Marshmallow Leads to Major Rescue
The investigation began in January 2025, when Angels for Mistreated Animals (AMA), a Brooklyn-based no-kill shelter, lost contact with Smolak regarding Marshmallow, a dog she had adopted in December 2024. The organization, which specializes in rescuing severely abused and neglected animals, grew increasingly concerned when updates on Marshmallow stopped.
After a month of silence, AMA discovered that Smolak had been fostering multiple dogs from different rescue organizations. By February, volunteers intervened, and on February 25, AMA board member Michele Walsh met with Smolak and was able to remove seven dogs from her home. According to Walsh, the dogs were found in grave condition and were transported to a safe facility in Long Island, New York.
Cross-State Investigation Leads to Warrants
Due to the interstate nature of the case, the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office in New York launched a formal investigation. The county’s BEAST Unit (Biological, Environmental, and Animal Safety Team) collaborated with local authorities in Connecticut to track Smolak’s activities.
On March 18, the execution of search warrants at Smolak’s residence revealed dogs kept in crates, loose in the house, and in unknown conditions. While officials have not disclosed full details due to the sealed search warrant, Chief Chris Ciuci of the Winchester Police Department confirmed the rescue of 27 dogs, all of whom will receive veterinary care and shelter.
Marshmallow Remains Missing
Despite the large-scale rescue effort, Marshmallow was not among the 27 dogs found. Authorities are still searching for the missing dog, and further legal actions may follow as the investigation unfolds.
Ongoing Animal Care and Legal Proceedings
The rescued dogs are currently being tagged, documented, and examined by veterinarians. Due to the large number of animals involved, Harwinton Regional Animal Control has enlisted assistance from Torrington Animal Control to ensure all dogs receive the necessary care and treatment.
Smolak is expected to face additional charges as authorities continue their investigation into the case.
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