Animal Cruelty Cases Prompt Woodbridge Police Chief To Issue Public Appeal: ‘Speak Up’

WOODBRIDGE, CT — A spate of recent area animal cruelty cases has prompted police to issue a plea to the public to let law enforcement know if an animal is being abused.

“I encourage residents to speak up if they witness mistreatment or neglect,” said Chief of Police Ronald Smith, in a Facebook announcement. “Your voice can save a life.”

According to Smith, the Woodbridge Regional Animal Control Division has been working collaboratively with police in Seymour on “very disturbing” animal cruelty investigations.

Smith said the division, which serves Woodbridge, Bethany, Beacon Falls and Seymour, responded to three cases in Seymour just between Oct. 20 and 31.

One case involved an emaciated dog, a Cane Corso. The dog was severely malnourished, and an animal control officer reported the dog’s “spine, hips and ribs” were “protruding.” The dog’s health is improving, and an arrest warrant has been secured, according to Smith.

On Oct. 27, animal control responded to a Seymour address after receiving a report of animal abuse. Officers found an 11-month-old Cane Corso in a crate, and a second emaciated dog inside the residence, according to Smith. Both dogs were transported for care, but the 11-month-old was pronounced dead the next morning, he said. The state is conducting a necropsy, and a criminal investigation is ongoing, according to Smith.

On Oct. 31, animal control officers responded to a roaming dog complaint in Seymour. This dog was also emaciated, according to Smith, and he said a veterinarian determined the dog was “dangerously malnourished,” and required immediate medical care. Police also have an ongoing criminal probe in that case, police said.

In September, Woodbridge police announced the arrest of a New Haven man, Curtis Torres, 29, who is accused of driving a German Shepherd to Bethany and abandoning the dog in June. Torres faces one count of cruelty to animals, and his case is pending in Superior Court in New Haven.

“I want to reaffirm our department's unwavering commitment to protecting the welfare of all members of our community - including the animals who depend on us for care and compassion,” Smith said.

He said officers and the animal control division work closely with veterinarians, shelters, and community organizations to investigate cases.

“For residents of Woodbridge, Beacon Falls, Bethany and Seymour, please report any suspected cruelty to our Animal Control Division immediately,” the chief said. “Together, we can create a community where compassion, responsibility, and respect extend to every living being.”

Read more:
Emaciated Dog Receives Emergency Care After ‘Critical Incident’: Woodbridge Regional Animal Control