Maine Shelter Owner Accused of Cruelty to Animals Has Died

A Bucksport animal refuge owner who faced charges of neglect and cruelty has died.

Bucksport, Maine Animal Rescue Shelter Closed in 2024 Amid Investigation

Ellisha Krutuleski owned the Coastal Dreams Rescue and Sanctuary in Bucksport until it was closed a year ago during an investigation into the alleged mistreatment of the animals housed there.

READ MORE: Maine Animals Who Took Over the Headlines 

When the police searched the facility in July 2024, Krutuleski was not there. Police, at the time, said she was in the hospital with an undisclosed illness.

Bucksport, Maine, Animal Shelter Closed in 2024 After Dozens of Dogs Were Seized

A search of the property revealed at least 33 dogs. Six of them were deceased, while at least 27 were still alive, but were thin and in poor health.

Get our free mobile app

The surviving dogs who were able to recover were provided medical care and put up for adoption.

My friend's dog, Miriam (pictured above), is one of the survivors.

Owner of Bucksport, Maine, Animal Shelter That Closed in 2024 Dies

Krutuleski was charged with six counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and one count of cruelty to animals. She pleaded not guilty to the charges against her in November 2024 but passed away before she could go to trial.

An obituary from Bibber Memorial Chapel in Southern Maine says Ellisha Krutuleski died on August 26, 2025, in Kennebunkport.

WABI-TV received confirmation from the Hancock County District Attorney's Office that she is the same woman who faced charges for the Coastal Dreams facility in Bucksport. The pending charges against her have been dropped.