East Hudson Valley News

Assemblyman Matt Slater has announced that Senator Peter Oberacker will introduce his animal cruelty bill (A.5820) in the New York State Senate this year. The proposed legislation aims to authorize bail for individuals charged with aggravated cruelty to animals and restore judicial discretion in cases of suspected animal abuse.

Aggravated cruelty to animals is recognized as a serious crime, often indicating deeper behavioral issues. Studies highlight a connection between animal abuse and other forms of violence, including domestic violence and homicide. According to the FBI, 75% of domestic violence survivors with pets report their abuser has harmed or threatened their pet, with children witnessing the violence more than 90% of the time.

New York state's 2019 bail reform laws currently do not allow individuals charged with aggravated animal cruelty to be held on bail. This legislation seeks to address this gap by making such offenses bailable, thereby aiming to protect both animals and people from potential repeat offenders.

"Animal cruelty is a glaring red flag for broader, more dangerous behavior," said Slater. "Our current cashless bail laws tie the hands of law enforcement and fail to protect both animals and people from repeat offenders. It’s simply unacceptable, which is why this legislation is vital."

Senator Oberacker expressed his support: "Aggravated animal abuse is a revolting crime that demands serious consequences. In restoring this crime to a bailable offense, our bill sends a clear message: cruelty to animals will not be tolerated in New York State."

Chief Ken Ross of the Putnam County SPCA stated that "animal cruelty has been proven to be a gateway crime." He supports adding felony animal cruelty as a bail-eligible charge.

Putnam County District Attorney Robert Tendy also supports the bill: "Any person who would intentionally kill or injure an animal for no reason is a person who can commit a serious act of violence against a human."

Putnam County Sheriff Kevin J. McConville added his support for Slater's efforts: "This bill is important; it is time to utilize the various aspects of the criminal justice system, including bail, to keep individuals from continued criminal acts."