Livestock seized in Canterbury

Canterbury, Conn. (WTNH) - Several farm animals were seized on Thursday after The Connecticut Department of Agriculture State Animal Control executed a search and seizure warrant of a farm in Canterbury. The warrant alleges that the animals kept on the farm were not properly cared for and the owners failed to provide adequate feed, water and veterinary care.

The CT Department of Agriculture and State Animal Control seized seven horses, one donkey, one llama, one pot belly pig along with several dogs and cats.

Previously, the CT Department of Agriculture and State Animal Control said they made numerous inspections and say many of the animals in Steve and Jennifer Stansell's care were emaciated, dehydrated and infested with lice. They also say 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 while the case goes through the court system.

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 seized on Thursday. 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.

"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," said Philip Prelli The Commissioner of Agriculture. "This is an ongoing investigation; we may pursue criminal animal neglect charges."