Hartford, CT – Connecticut Department of Agriculture State Animal Control Officers executed a search and seizure warrant today at the property of Steve and Jennifer Stansell at 17 Wauregan Road in Canterbury, CT. Livestock seized included seven horses, one donkey, one llama, and one pot belly pig. In addition to the livestock several dogs and cats were also seized.
Upon receipt of a citizen complaint, the State Animal Control Division initiated an investigation in November 2009. Since then State Animal Control Officers had made several inspections and attempted to gain voluntary compliance with minimal animal care standards. The warrant alleges that the Stansells failed to provide adequate feed, water, and veterinary care for the animals. Several animals were observed to be emaciated, dehydrated, and infested with lice. Some of the animals exhibited difficulty walking due to overgrown hooves and poorly maintained feet.
State Animal Control was assisted by State Police and local animal control officers, who are housing the dogs and cats until the case is disposed of through the court. The Connecticut Department of Agriculture is working with the Attorney General’s office through a civil action to gain custody and eventual ownership of all the animals. Once the Department has ownership and the animals are rehabilitated, the pets will be offered for adoption through local municipal pounds and the livestock will be sold at public auction.
Proceeds from the sale of the livestock are used to offset the cost of care. The cost to rehabilitate seized animals far exceeds the amount recovered from their sale. The Department can accept donations made to the “Animal Abuse Cost Recovery Account” to help support its mandated animal rescue activities.
Commissioner of Agriculture F. Philip Prelli remarked, “Once State Animal Control Officers determined that the care of these animals had deteriorated to the point they were becoming dehydrated, we moved very quickly to take them into the Department’s custody and care. This is an ongoing investigation; we may pursue criminal animal neglect charges.”
