- Connecticut, USA -
Following a cruelty to animals investigation, the Winchester Police Department announced the arrest of 28-year-old SARAH ANNE SMOLAK (pictured).
Police said that on the early morning of March 18, 2025, officers went to a residence on 86 Strong Terrace in Winsted and served two arrest warrants for SMOLAK. Police explained the warrants were part of a joint investigation by the Department, the Town of Harwinton Regional Animal Control Department, and the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s Animal Control Officers.
The investigation further led to the removal of twenty-seven (27) dogs who are being “examined, housed, and cared for locally”, said police.
The investigation into SMOLAK was launched in February 2025, shortly after she moved to Winsted when Winchester Police received a complaint from AMA Animal Rescue, regarding one of its foster dogs, a Pitbull named Marshmallow. AMA is based in Brooklyn, New York.
AMA Animal Rescue told police they entrusted Marshmallow to SMOLAK in December 2024, but Marshmallow had since disappeared and SMOLAK refused to disclose his whereabouts.
SMOLAK is charged with two counts of cruelty to animals. She was released after her arraignment on the condition to not “possess” animals.
According to a warrant for SMOLAK’s arrest, she is accused of failing to get medical treatment for Pancake and Seraphine, two dogs she had been “fostering” for animal rescue groups.
Pancake had a serious gastronomical issue causing her to lose weight but SMOLAK said it was due to her throwing up. SMOLAK took Pancake to a vet and it was determined that Pancake needed surgery. The vet reported that SMOLAK first attempted to leave with Pancake and then left leaving the furvictim behind. The vet alerted the authorities, and Pancake underwent surgery and thankfully recovered.
A second warrant described Seraphine’s condition after staying with SMOLAK for a period of time. According to the warrant, Seraphine suffered from hair loss, had open sores, was limping, and her spine and rib cage were visible.
Marshmallow was not among the twenty-seven dogs removed from SMOLAK's home on Tuesday and is still missing. AMA is offering a $2,500 reward for information on his whereabouts.
In a Facebook post AMA Animal Rescue said:
“AMA Animal Rescue acknowledges the arrest of Sarah Smolak by the Winchester Police Department on charges of animal cruelty and urges law enforcement and the public to remain vigilant in the ongoing search for Marshmallow, a missing dog last known to be in Smolak’s care.
According to the Winchester Police Department’s official press release, Smolak was arrested on two counts of animal cruelty, and twenty-four dogs were seized from her custody. This arrest confirms what we and countless animal advocates have long feared—dogs in Smolak’s care have suffered neglect, abuse, and even disappearance. In recent weeks, pet owners and animal rescues from across the country have come forward with similar horror stories about their animals, and we believe there are many more victims.
While we are relieved that Smolak has finally been held accountable for her actions, Marshmallow is still missing. He was last entrusted to her care, and she has yet to disclose his whereabouts. We urge anyone with information to come forward immediately.”
Winchester Police Chief Christopher Ciuci expressed his gratitude to advocacy groups and area law enforcement partners from as far as Long Island, NY, who provided information and assistance.
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Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from the press release by the Winchester 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.
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