Woman Accused Of Extensively Damaging Norwalk Rental Property: Police

NORWALK, CT — A Winsted woman who recently charged in an animal cruelty case involving over 20 dogs is now accused of extensively damaging a rental property in Norwalk, according to police.

In a news release, Police Lt. Tomasz Podgorski said the department began investigating a property damage complaint on Cedar Crest Place in late February after a landlord reported damage and theft by former tenant Sarah Smolak, 28, of Winchester.

After further investigation, police discovered extensive damage inside the home, including "broken garage and basement doors, stain marks on the walls and floors throughout the home, damaged windows and baseboards and the presence of urine and fecal matter," according to Podgorski.

The property's lawn was also extensively damaged and outdoor lawn furniture, as well as a washing machine, had been stolen, according to Podgorski.

On Monday, Norwalk officers responded to the Winchester Police Department and took Smolak into custody, Podgorski said.

She was charged with first-degree criminal damage of a landlord's property and fourth-degree larceny.

Smolak's bond was set at $50,000 and she is scheduled to appear in court later this month, according to Podgorski.