ALBANY – Putnam County officials traveled to Albany Wednesday calling on the state legislature to approve a bill that would restore judicial discretion to set bail for individuals charged with aggravated cruelty to animals.
The bipartisan bill introduced by Assemblyman Matt Slater (R, Yorktown) would amend current law to allow judges to consider bail in cases involving the most severe forms of animal abuse — offenses that are currently not bail eligible.
“Aggravated cruelty to animals is a deeply disturbing crime that often signals broader patterns of violence. The legislation restores common-sense judicial discretion and helps ensure that individuals accused of these heinous acts can be held accountable while awaiting trial,” Slater said.
Putnam County District Attorney Robert Tendy joined Putnam SPCA Chief Ken Ross at the news conference.
Tendy called animal cruelty heartbreaking. “There are also clear connections between those who abuse animals and those who commit domestic violence, child abuse, and other violent crimes. Our judges need to have the discretion to determine when bail should be set on someone who has abused an animal. Right now, because of a loophole in our state laws, a person can commit the most severe cruelty against an animal, and that person would walk away with nothing more than a desk appearance ticket after arrest. This has to change.”
Ross has seen too many cases of animal abuse during his career: “Aggravated animal cruelty is not an isolated act—it is often a precursor to broader patterns of violence that threaten both animals and our communities. This legislation provides judges with appropriate discretion to set bail and conditions when warranted, helping to ensure accountability while protecting public safety. Allowing courts the ability to evaluate risk and impose safeguards is a commonsense step toward protecting animals and people—and, this bill strengthens New York’s commitment to both.”
Slater said he will continue working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance policies that strengthen public safety, support law enforcement and ensure the justice system has the tools needed to respond appropriately to serious crimes.
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