Governor Andrew M. Cuomo this week signed legislation that will increase the maximum fine from $200 to $1,000 for those who attempt to steal, harm, or transport a dog, cat or other pet that is not their own.
โFor many New Yorkers, a pet can be an extension of their family โ which is why pet theft is a particularly heartless offense,โ Governor Cuomo said. โIncreasing the penalties for stealing or harming dogs, cats and other animals is an important way that we can crack down on this crime, and I thank the billโs sponsors for their work on this issue.โ
The new maximum penalty will be applied against those that remove a collar or identification, entice, seize or harass a pet while it is being held, led or while properly muzzled, or transporting an animal for the purpose of killing or selling it. The fine has not been increased since 1970, when the penalties were raised to the current maximum of $200 and/or six months imprisonment.
The American Kennel Club reports that there were more than 590 thefts of pets in 2013, which it claims represents a 31 percent increase over the number of thefts in 2012. By increasing the maximum fine, this bill aims to deter pet theft.
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