Woman Accused Of Animal Cruelty: Norwalk Police

NORWALK, CT — A 28-year-old Winchester woman was recently arrested by Norwalk police on a warrant charging her with felony animal cruelty, after police said a dog in her care lost significant weight and showed signs of declining health.

Sarah Anne Smolak turned herself in to Norwalk police after the arrest warrant was issued in connection with the alleged mistreatment of a 3-year-old pit bull named Little Squishy.

The Norwalk Police Department’s Animal Control Division began investigating the case in late October 2024, after receiving a complaint about the dog’s deteriorating condition. Authorities said veterinary records from clinics in Connecticut and New York indicated the dog lost 13 pounds over a two-month period while being fostered by Smolak in August and September 2024.

According to police, the dog’s health and weight improved after being removed from Smolak’s care. Investigators concluded the animal had not been "receiving proper care and caloric intake" during that time.

Smolak was released after her initial $50,000 bond was reduced to a promise to appear in Stamford Superior Court on May 28.