Shock and Outrage as 2 Arrested for Animal Cruelty in Connecticut—75 Counts Filed After Gruesome Discovery

STERLING, CT — In a case that has sent shockwaves across the country, two individuals from Sterling, Connecticut have been charged with a combined 75 counts of animal cruelty after police uncovered a horrifying animal hoarding situation inside their home. Authorities seized 30 mistreated animals and discovered several dead pets stuffed inside a household freezer.

At the center of the investigation are Nicole Desnoyers (22) and Kelly Desnoyers (56), who now face felony charges and public outrage following the sickening discovery.

“Deplorable Conditions” and a Freezer Full of Death

Connecticut State Police responded to reports of a disturbance at a residence in Sterling on Wednesday evening. What they found was beyond disturbing.

The home, spanning just over 1,500 square feet, was littered with animal feces, infested with flies, and filled with the overwhelming stench of urine. Dogs were crammed into cages stacked three to four high, with no visible food or water in sight.

Inside the freezer? Police found two dead guinea pigs and three cats, while a dead squirrel was found elsewhere in the house.

30 Living Animals Rescued

Among the animals rescued were:

  • 14 dogs
  • 6 kittens
  • 2 guinea pigs
  • 5 rats
  • 1 goat
  • 1 pony
  • 1 bearded dragon
  • 1 chicken
  • 1 rooster
  • 2 potbellied pigs

Animal Control began investigating the residence back in February 2025, after reports of hoarding behavior emerged. Officials say repeated well-being checks were made, but the occupants refused to answer the door. Eventually, a court-ordered warrant allowed police to enter on March 5.

No Licenses, No Remorse

Records showed that Kelly Desnoyers had no legal licenses to own any dogs at her address. Despite this, she allegedly housed dozens of animals in unsafe and inhumane conditions. Authorities also say she denied access to Animal Control and even filed a complaint about the investigating officers.

Both Nicole and Oscar were released on $20,000 bond each. As part of their release, they are prohibited from owning or caring for any animals.

They are scheduled to appear in Danielson Superior Court on April 30.

A Community Demands Justice

This heartbreaking case has already gained traction on social media, with thousands calling for tougher penalties and stronger protections for animals.

“This isn’t just neglect—this is cruelty on a massive scale. These animals suffered in silence,” wrote one Facebook commenter.

Let’s make sure their suffering was not in vain. Let’s speak up for those who cannot.

🔁 Share this post to spread awareness.
📣 Use your voice to demand justice.

🐾 #JusticeForSterlingAnimals
🚨 #AnimalCrueltyAwareness
💔 #StopAnimalAbuse
📍 #ConnecticutNews
🗣️ #ViralJustice

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