Woman arrested on warrant after 35 animals seized, dead animals found, in Hamden

Police arrested a woman after a disturbing find at her home.

According to HPD, on December 15, Hamden Police arrested Donna Scirocco on the strength of an arrest warrant. Scirocco turned herself in at police headquarters.

On October 26, 2020, the Hamden Animal Control Division, with the assistance of animal control units from the State of Connecticut, Cheshire, East Haven, North Haven and Southbury executed a search and seizure warrant at her residence, 200 Blue Hills Avenue.

Upon entering the residence, animal control officers were greeted by 2 large rats. After conducting a thorough and comprehensive search, animal control officers seized 26 cats, 6 dogs, 2 caged squirrels and a blind owl. One of the dogs was clinging to life. In addition, animal control officers seized 3 deceased animals, including 2 cats and a woodchuck. Taxidermic animals were found inside of the residence.

Scirocco, 59, was charged with 6 counts of Cruelty to Animals. She was detained on a court-ordered $5,000.00 bond. Scirocco is scheduled to appear at Meriden Superior Court on February 5, 2021.

Assistant Animal Control Officer Parris Gibbs conducted the investigation.