Winsted Woman Charged In Animal Cruelty Case: Police

WINCHESTER, CT — A Winsted woman was charged early Tuesday with animal cruelty after police seized 24 dogs from her home.

Sarah Smolak, 28, of 86 Strong Terrace, was charged with two counts of cruelty to animals, police said. Smolak was held on $150,000 bond and transported to the Litchfield Judicial District Courthouse in Torrington for arraignment later today.

Police went to Smolak’s home around 6:30 a.m. to serve two warrants for her arrest.

The 24 seized dogs are being examined, housed and cared for locally, according to police.

Winchester police said the warrants are part of an ongoing investigation involving multiple agencies. The Harwinton Regional Animal Control Department and animal control officers with the state Department of Agriculture are also participating in the probe.

Police said advocacy groups and law enforcement from as far away as Long Island, New York provided information and assistance for their investigation.

AMA Animal Rescue, based in New York, said Tuesday it provided information to investigators.

“This arrest confirms what we and countless animal advocates have long feared - dogs in Smolak’s care have suffered neglect, abuse, and even disappearance,” the organization said, in a press release following Smolak’s arrest.

According to the organization, Smolak took in one of its rescued foster dogs, a dog named Marshmallow, in December 2024. It claims Smolak later refused to provide updates about Marshmallow. The dog is now missing, according to AMA Animal Rescue, and there is a $2,500 reward for information leading to his safe return.

“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,” the organization said, in the press release.

Police declined to elaborate on the condition of the seized dogs on Tuesday, indicating it is part of the ongoing investigation. Marshmallow was not among them, police confirmed Tuesday.

Anyone with information relevant to the ongoing probe is asked to contact Winchester police at 860-379-2721. For tips on Marshmallow’s whereabouts, email AMA at BRINGMARSHYHOME@gmail.com.