Creating an Offenders Registry for Animal Cruelty

Animal cruelty has been a felony since 1999, when Buster’s Law passed the New York legislature after a cat was doused in kerosene and lit on fire.

Now lawmakers including state Sen. Greg Ball (R-Putnam)are promoting a public registry to permanently list those convicted under Buster's law.

“Buster’s Law was a landmark bill for our furry little friends. This animal abuse registry will prevent repeat animal abuse offenders,” said Senator Greg Ball in a press release. “Persons who commit crimes against animals represent some of the worst kind of people, and often expand their carnage to their neighbors and the larger community."

The bill has passed the senate; there is also an Assembly version.