It’s The Law!
In 1999, the New York State Legislator passed a law
making deliberate or “aggravated animal cruelty” a felony. The provisions of the law state that those convicted of deliberate cruelty face a two-year prison sentence, a $5,000.00 fine, mandatory counseling, a temporary or permanent ban on pet ownership, and the inclusion of the pet’s protection orders.
Passive cruelty resulting from neglect is considered a misdemeanor. The maximum sentence is a one-year prison term and/or a $1,000.00 fine.
For further information on the laws concerning cruelty to animals in any state, visit the ASCPA website for comprehensive information.
Reporting Animal Cruelty: What to Have on Hand
• When possible, have a concise, factual statement
or list stating what you observed, dates, times, and location.
• Attempt to photograph the abusive situation. Date the photos. Do not approach if you think there is any danger to you personally. Call authorities immediately!
• If there were other witnesses, attempt to procure short, factual written statements from them, and obtain contact information.
• When you call, keep a careful record of exactly whom you contact: agency, agent, date, telephone number, and content and outcome of the discus- sion.
• Always keep a copy of any document you use. Make clear to the agent that you are very inter- ested in pursuing the case, and that you are willing to lend whatever assistance you can.
• Follow up with additional contact if necessary. (Information courtesy of ASPCA.)
Reporting Animal Cruelty: How and Where
• New York City: Report cruelty or fighting complaints to either the New York City Police Department (311 for general calls, 911 for emergencies), or to the ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement Department at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4450. You can also e-mail enforcement@aspca.org
• New Jersey: Report complaints to your local police department, the New Jersey SPCA at (800) 582-5979, or NJSPCA’s online form.
• Outside New York City or New Jersey: Report to the police department covering your area (they are required to investigate). Inform your local animal control agency. Visit the ASPCA’s searchable shelter database.
• To Report Websites that Depict Animal Cruelty: Contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice. The Pet-Abuse.com website offers information for helping to determine more information about whether or not a website is actively harming animals.
AlWAYs RemembeR: ANImAl CRuelTY Is A felONY! A 911 CAll musT be INVesTIgATeD!!