An East Haven woman has been arrested on animal cruelty charges stemming from a February 2018 complaint made by Shore Haven Veterinarian Hospital.

According to East Haven Police, Shore Haven Veterinarian Hospital, notified East Haven Animal Control Officer Sean Godejohn on Feb. 21 about a severely malnourished dog named Samson. Godejohn was advised that Samons' owner, identified as Celena Campbell, 41, called the animal hospital because he was not eating and had not defecated for several days. Employees at the animal hospital advised Campbell to bring Samson in for a medical evaluation but she never showed up. That prompted employees to contact East Haven Animal Control.

Godejohn responded to Campbell's residence to perform a welfare check on the animal on Feb. 22. Godejohn and two East Haven officers located the severely malnourished Rhodesian Ridgeback tied to a pool deck. Godejohn's arrest warrant affidavit stated that it appeared that the dog dug itself a hole to keep itself warm. The arrest warrant also states that the dog did not have access to food, water or shelter. The dog was extremely thin, with spinal bones and ribs protruding from its body. The dog was also reported to have wounds, scrapes, scars and patches of hair missing from his body. egative contact was made at the house and due to inclement weather Godejohn stated he believed Samson to be in "imminent harm and in need of immediate veterinary intervention". To prevent further harm or neglect to Samson, Godejohn seized him.

Once Samson was evaluated by medical professionals he was found to be in severe need of medical attention and needed to be hospitalized. Veterinarians documented several significant neglect related injuries including severe malnourishment, muscle atrophy, and open sores down to the muscle ligament.

Campbell was charged with animal cruelty. She was process and released ona $2,500 non-surety bond and is scheduled to appear in court on May 23.

Godejohn filed the proper paperwork to take over ownership of Samson who has since been placed in another home. Samson is reported to be healthy and in good spirits with his new owners.