Bombshell animal cruelty case spurs petition

MOHEGAN LAKE, NY - Following the second arrest made in an animal cruelty case involving a Mohegan Lake Pet Shop, New York State Senator Terrence Murphy announced the launch of his Protect Our Pets Petition in an effort to put pressure on the Assembly to pass what he calls crucial legislation that seeks to provide added protection to animals across New York.

"Everyday my wife and I teach our three kids about right and wrong," Murphy said. "Any case of animal cruelty is not just wrong but sickening to hear about. I was proud to sponsor and support several key pieces of legislation this year which would protect our pets and ensure those who do harm to animals are held accountable for their actions."

Recently, several arrests have been made involving a chain of pet shops with a store in Mohegan Lake. Officials charged the owner and one of the managers with counts relating to the care of two dogs and a kitten, two of which were euthanized as a result of mistreatment.

Margaret Cunzio, a foster for the SPCA of Westchester in Briarcliff Manor and Second Chance Rescue NYC, said this common-sense legislation will protect animals across our state from those who do them harm. "As the owner of seven rescue pets, I thank Senator Murphy for his leadership on this issue and encourage residents to add their name to the Protect Our Pets petition," she said.

In June the Senate passed S.3451, which was authored by Murphy, that would increase the penalty for multiple convictions of torturing, killing or failing to provide sustenance to an animal to a felony, if convicted within five years from the date of a prior conviction. The measure passed with overwhelming support of 61-1.

"Animal cruelty is a key indicator of future violence toward human victims," Murphy continued. "New York has an incredible opportunity to pass meaningful legislation which would punish those who commit these heinous acts. I implore my colleagues in the Assembly to take up this legislation as soon as possible in order to put these needed protections for our pets in place."

In addition to S.3451 Murphy is also calling for the passage of S.4265, which would make it easier to prosecute people causing serious injury to a companion animal. Further, S.3201 would modernize animal cruelty laws to promote consistent enforcement by law enforcement officials and the courts, and "Buster's Law," S.2935, would establish a public registry of people convicted of animal cruelty.

Constituents are encouraged to sign the petition to show their support for the animal rights legislative package.