Lawmakers: State Should Cross-Report Links Between Child Abuse & Animal Cruelty & Domestic Violence

COVENTRY, RI — Everybody knows where there's smoke there's fire, but what signs predict child abuse or domestic violence? Although there aren't any infallible ones, there is a strong correlation between animal cruelty and violence against people, according to House Minority Leader Patricia Morgan (R-District 26 Coventry, Warwick, West Warwick).

She would like Rhode Island to adopt a mandatory cross-reporting system, so humane societies, child welfare agencies and law enforcement can share information.

Morgan's bill, House Resolution 5392, was recently discussed in a Statehouse hearing.

“Sadly for all, there is a high correlation between child and animal abuse," Morgan said. "It’s common sense to link the two together, and it would cost very little to implement, yet yield such valuable information. Often, animal abuse is a stepping stone to child abuse and/or domestic violence. Creating a cross-reporting system would supply critical information to law enforcement officials who are entrusted to protect our state’s children and animals from harm."

The Ocean State Animal Coalition and the Rhode Island SPCA also support House Resolution 5392.

The Resolution was co-sponsored by Representatives Robert Nardolillo III (R-District 28 Coventry), Sherry Roberts (R-District 29 Coventry, West Greenwich), Ken Mendonça (R-District 72 Middletown, Portsmouth) and Anthony Giarrusso (R-District 30 East Greenwich, West Greenwich).