WATERBURY POLICE DEPARTMENT MAKES ARREST IN ANIMAL CRUELTY INVESTIGATION

On August 28, 2026, a video depicting a woman abusing two dogs inside a cage from approximately one year ago resurfaced on various social media platforms and quickly went viral.

Waterbury Police Patrol Officers and Waterbury Animal Control Officers responded to the known address where the two dogs currently reside. Officers confirmed that both dogs were happy, in good health, and showed no signs of abuse or neglect. Officers also confirmed that, at the time of the investigation, the woman depicted in the video did not have custody of or contact with either dog.

The woman depicted in the video was identified as Marilyn Valdez, 22, of Waterbury.

Waterbury Police Detectives conducted an investigation and secured an arrest warrant for Valdez, charging her with Malicious or Intentional Cruelty to Animals (Felony), in violation of C.G.S. § 53-247(b)(1).

Valdez was taken into custody on September 15, 2026. She was held on a $55,000 bond and was presented in court the following morning.

The Waterbury Police Department takes incidents involving animal abuse seriously and remains committed to thoroughly investigating allegations of animal cruelty and pursuing appropriate criminal charges when warranted.

The Waterbury Police Department also appreciates the members of the community who brought this matter to our attention