Bella was an 11 year-old Shepherd mix who was shoved into a garbage bag and beaten with a shovel by her owner on Long Island, New York in 2016. She was rushed to a veterinary hospital, but her injuries were too severe — and Bella had to be euthanized. Even though her abuser pleaded guilty to a felony charge of aggravated cruelty to animals, he was sentenced to only four months in jail.
The Animal Legal Defense Fund is fighting to strengthen New York’s outdated animal cruelty laws to ensure that crimes against animals are taken seriously, animal abusers receive appropriate punishment for their crimes, and the justice system is working to protect all animals from abuse.
Animal cruelty is a serious crime. Animal abusers are five times more likely to hurt other people. Strong sentences for abusers protect people and animals alike. Robust cruelty laws keep our communities safer for everyone.
Stand up and be heard. Sign our petition if you agree that animal abusers should be held accountable.
I believe animal cruelty should be taken seriously and the punishment should fit the crime.
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