Marlborough man held without bail facing 96 animal cruelty charges

STURBRIDGE, Mass. (WLNE) — The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said a Marlborough man will continue to be held without bail in connection to 96 dead animals discovered on a property he was renting in Sturbridge.

Andrew Sebastiano faces 96 charges of animal cruelty and 96 charges of animal cruelty by custodian.

Chickens, geese, pigs, ducks, and rabbits were among the dead animals found on the property.

Police also seized a dog, which was placed into the care of the MSPCA.

The MSPCA said the eight-month-old Australian Cattle dog, named Foxy, is getting ready for adoption.

Since being surrendered by Sebastiano, MSPCA said “she’s doing really well.” Foxy is expected to be available for adoption next week at the Nevins Farm Adoption Center.

Foxy is expected to be available for adoption next week at the Nevins Farm Adoption Center. (courtesy: MSPCA-Angell)

Sebastiano was held without bail on March 26 pending a dangerousness hearing. On April 1, he was again ordered to be held without bail. 

“We commend the judge on his decision to continue holding this person without bail,” MSPCA Law Enforcement Director Chris Schindler said. “Animal cruelty should be a factor in determining the risks an individual poses to the community, and this decision reflects that.”

Sebastiano is due back in court on April 23.

The department added that Sebastiano previously pled guilty to animal cruelty charges in 2021 and was sentenced to probation.