Senate approves 'Kirby & Quigley's Law' to strengthen animal cruelty penalties; O’Mara co-sponsors legislation, urges Assembly action

Albany, New York, February 1—The New York State Senate has approved legislation co-sponsored by Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C,I-Big Flats) to make it felony crime for harming a companion animal during the commission of another felony.

The legislation (S1680/A3038) is known as “Kirby & Quigley’s Law” in memory of two Goldendoodles shot and killed during a still-unsolved burglary in Montgomery County in February 2016.

The Senate approved the legislation with strong bipartisan support by a vote of 59 to 2.

“We have an opportunity to turn a horrific tragedy for this Montgomery County family into a positive action that could help prevent anyone else from having to face the similar, violent murder of members of their family,” said O’Mara.  “It’s widely recognized and accepted that anyone who would commit an act of animal cruelty often turns their violent and uncontrollable behavior toward humans.  It’s a ‘bridge crime’ and it needs to be addressed as strongly as possible.  It’s time for the Assembly Democratic leadership to act.”

Specifically the proposed legislation would make it an animal cruelty law felony, punishable by two years in prison and a $5,000 fine, for harming a companion animal during the commission of another felony. This enhanced penalty would ensure that perpetrators are charged with felony animal cruelty charges when they face other felonies such as burglary.

The Senate has approved the legislation for the past five consecutive years, but the Assembly has not acted on it.

“My family and I are changed people due to the tragedy that occurred at our home on February 17, 2016.  The heinous crime of killing our dogs Kirby and Quigley during the robbery of our home will be with us forever. Our lives are now defined by the time before Kirby and Quigley were murdered in our home and after this tragedy.  Every day, our family agonizes over the fact that the criminals who did this may never be punished for murdering our pets.  Our mission now is to advocate for this bi-partisan bill in hopes that another family may have some relief knowing there is a law in place to protect our companion animals and humans from harm.  We advocate for ‘Kirby and Quigley’s Law’ in honor of all animals who do not have a voice,” said Denise Krohn, who was present in the Senate chamber on Monday as the Senate approved the legislation which has been named in honor of her family’s dogs.

To sign a petition in support of "Kirby & Quigley's Law," click HERE.