Saratoga Standard

Companion animals, like dogs and cats, provide comfort and companionship to residents in over 86 million U.S. households, according to recent studies. These animals offer various health benefits, including stress and anxiety reduction, in addition to providing emotional support and assistance to seniors and people with disabilities. Senator Jim Tedisco emphasizes the invaluable roles animals play, whether in aiding daily life, law enforcement, or military missions.

Despite these contributions, animal cruelty and neglect persist, causing significant suffering. Research identifies animal violence as a potential precursor to violence against humans. An infamous incident involving a cat named Buster, who was set on fire in Schenectady, underscored this link. The perpetrator later committed further crimes, including attempted rape. This case led to the 1999 introduction of "Buster’s Law," sponsored by Senator Tedisco, making aggravated cruelty to animals a felony with penalties of up to two years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation acknowledges animal cruelty as a significant crime, reinforcing its classification as a top-tier offense in their reporting statistics due to its association with further violent crimes.

Senator Tedisco proposes several bills to strengthen public safety measures. One such proposal is prompted by a recent case involving two individuals from the Bronx and Albany, accused of setting a pit bull puppy on fire. The pair were charged under "Buster’s Law" but were released due to state bail reform laws. Tedisco argues that such laws provide loopholes for dangerous individuals to evade custody, posing a public safety risk.

Senator Tedisco sponsors bipartisan legislation to repeal the current bail law, granting judges more discretion akin to other states. He also proposes increasing the maximum penalty for aggravated cruelty to animals in domestic violence cases from two years to four years in prison. Additional proposals include enhancing the penalties for violating "Buster’s Law," from two years imprisonment and a $5,000 fine to four years and $10,000 respectively, and requiring those convicted of animal cruelty to undergo psychiatric evaluations and be prohibited from owning pets.

The proposed "Kirby & Quiqley’s Law" would introduce a new felony charge for harming a companion animal during another crime, with penalties mirroring those of "Buster’s Law."

Senator Tedisco emphasizes these legislative measures aim not only to protect pets but also to safeguard all family members from violence. He stresses the government's duty to protect citizens, including animals who cannot advocate for themselves, against abuse and neglect. Tedisco concludes by highlighting that while having a pet is a privilege, ensuring their safety and well-being is a fundamental right. He asserts that recent legal reforms have tipped the scales in favor of criminals, leaving victims and animals at risk.