New York State Senator Pete Harckham announced that his bipartisan legislation to support the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in its ongoing efforts to hold animal abusers accountable has passed the Senate unanimously.
The bill (S.1664) would allow SPCA officers statewide to access the live scan fingerprinting system used by law enforcement agencies following an arrest. This capability would enable SPCA officers to complete arrest processing independently—saving time, improving efficiency, and reducing the risk that suspects evade justice. Currently, most SPCA officers in New York must rely on other law enforcement agencies to process arrests.
“SPCA officers must have the tools and resources they need to protect defenseless animals from cruelty and neglect and the public at large from serial abusers,” said Harckham. “With access to live scan fingerprinting, officers can quickly determine whether a suspect has a history of abuse or is wanted for other crimes. Streamlining this process will strengthen public safety and help deliver justice for animals.”
Harckham said the legislation was inspired by feedback from officers at the Putnam County SPCA, who described delays caused by having to locate another agency to conduct fingerprinting. In some cases, those delays allowed suspects with outstanding warrants to remain at large.
“Animal cruelty crimes are especially disturbing because they target the most vulnerable,” said Chief Ken Ross of the Putnam County SPCA. “These offenses are often linked to other forms of violence, including child abuse and domestic violence. Senator Harckham recognized the urgency of this issue and worked diligently to advance this legislation. By streamlining the arrest process, we can more effectively identify offenders and hold them accountable. We are grateful for his leadership in bringing this bill forward.”
The true number of animal cruelty cases in New York is difficult to determine, as many incidents go unreported. Neglect remains the most common form of abuse, followed by animal hoarding and physical violence. SPCAs across the state have reported an increase in cases since the COVID-19 pandemic, citing factors such as rising living costs, behavioral health challenges, and the end of eviction protections.
According to the Humane Society International, 85% of individuals arrested for animal cruelty have prior arrests—most for felony offenses. Additionally, 70% of individuals involved in domestic violence have also been linked to animal abuse.
A companion bill to Harckham’s is in committee in the State Assembly, where it was introduced by Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal.
