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History
- Referred to codes
- Referred to rules
Companion bill
The same bill in the other chamber. A bill becomes law when one version passes both houses and the governor signs it, so either number can carry it.
Creates first and second degree pet theft offenses
In Assembly Committee · Codes · Sponsor Joseph Lentol
Full text
The text isn't available here yet. Check nysenate.gov.
Sponsor's memo
Title of bill
An act to amend the penal law, in relation to theft of a companion animal or pet
Purpose or general idea of bill
Creates first and second degree pet theft offenses.
Summary of specific provisions
* The penal law is amended by adding three new sections; 165.75, 165.76, and 165.77
Justification
Pets often provide companionship that mirrors that of a best friend or loved one. When a pet is stolen, it feels as if a loved one has been kidnapped. Unfortunately, the law does not currently acknowledge the severity of loss in these sad situations. Pet theft is currently prosecuted, if at all, as a petit larceny, misdemeanor offense - supposing the loss of a beloved pet is similar to that of any stolen personal property. Pets, however, occupy a special place in our hearts, homes and society and should, therefore, be distinguished under the law.
This measure creates the first and second degree felony offenses of pet theft. A person is guilty of pet theft in the second degree when he/she steals a companion animal or pet, which is defined as a dog, cat or other domesticated animal normally maintained in or near the household of the owner or person who cares for such animal. Pet theft in the second degree is a class E felony and carries a maximum sentence of four years imprisonment. A person is guilty of pet theft in the first degree when he/she commits pet theft in the second degree, and when (1) such animal is sold for scientific research purposes; or, (2) with no justifiable purpose, he or she intentionally kills or intentionally causes serious physical injury to such companion animal or pet with aggravated cruelty. Pet theft in the first degree is a class D felony and carries a maximum sentence of seven years imprisonment.
Prior legislative history
New for 2009.
Fiscal implications
None to the state.
Effective date
Immediately.
Summaries, headlines and scores are AI-generated from the official bill text. How we score bills. Source: NYS Open Legislation.