Hebron Woman Charged With Animal Cruelty

HEBRON, CT — A woman is facing accusations that she moved from a home and left a large number of animals behind, according to state police. Joann Connelly, 59, the owner and operator of CT Pregnant Dog and Cat Rescue, was charged with three counts of cruelty to animals.

Police began investigating complaints that in February 2021 regarding animals under Connelly's care and allegations of neglect. Police made numerous attempts to access the home for observation but were unsuccessful due to a locked gate at the end of the driveway.

A Department of Children & Families investigator requested assistance during a site visit regarding information received that the owner had moved and left a large number of animals behind.

During the site visit, accompanied by the Hebron Resident Trooper, Hebron Animal Control Officer, and a State Animal Control Officer, the conditions in the home were found to be "deplorable and unsanitary and an overwhelming odor of urine and feces could be smelled from outside of the residence," according to police.

Police found numerous dogs in cages crammed throughout the house. The floors throughout the home were covered in urine and feces. Birds and cats were also in the home and a pony, goats, and geese were outside of the home in poor conditions, according to police.

Connelly was arrested Thursday and held on $10,000 bond. She is scheduled to appear in court Monday.

The animals were seized and transported, and are receiving veterinary care. State Animal Control will be ensuring that the animals go to homes with proper care, according to police.