MATTHEW ALEX HARRIS arrested after seven neglected dogs were removed from his Naugatuck home

- Connecticut, USA -

The Naugatuck Police Department announced the arrest of 31-year-old MATTHEW ALEX HARRIS (pictured).

Police said in a press release that on July 1, 2025, Animal Control responded to the area of Morning Dove Road in reference to two roaming dogs.

Animal Control found two Bulldogs who were “emaciated and had multiple wounds”, so ACO took them to the veterinarian for treatment.

The following day, HARRIS went to Naugatuck Animal Control to pick up the two dogs but due to the condition the dogs were found in, Animal Control explained that Officers would need to do a welfare check of his home.

Once at HARRIS’ home, Animal Control Officers discovered that he had five additional dogs. Those five dogs were malnourished and had skin infections as well as old wounds.

HARRIS was arrested and charged with two counts of animal cruelty. He was released on a $50,000 surety bond.

As part of the investigation, the Naugatuck Police Detective Bureau applied for and were granted a search and seizure warrant for HARRIS’ home to ensure that there were no additional dogs in the house. Police said no additional dogs were found.

As a result of the search and seizure warrant, HARRIS is charged with five additional counts of animal cruelty and one count of risk of injury to a minor.

The seven dogs were signed over to Naugatuck Animal Control and as stated in the release, they are now “in need of rescue placement for further rehabilitation and treatment.”

Police said if you know of a rescue, or are a rescue and can help with the dogs, please contact ACO Brittany Tooth at 203-729-4324 or email AnimalControl@naugatuckpd.gov. Thank you!

HARRIS is scheduled to appear in Waterbury Superior Court on July 30, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.

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Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from the press release by the Naugatuck Police Department. Please note that details may be removed or new information added should updates become available.

In the case of charges being dropped, dismissed, or the case being purged, this article will be rectified accordingly, if official documentation is provided to Voice For Us.

HARRIS’ mugshot shared from the Naugatuck Police Department

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