Brooklyn Assemblyman Adds ‘Animal Cruelty’ to DNA Legislation

April 4, 2012 Brooklyn Eagle Staff

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BROOKLYN — State Assemblyman Joseph R. Lentol (D-North Brooklyn) announced that the further expansion of the DNA databank includes offenders convicted of aggravated cruelty to animals.

The DNA databank was recently expanded to require DNA samples from those convicted of all felonies and all penal law misdemeanors, with the exception of individuals convicted of class B misdemeanors of criminal possession of marijuana in the fifth degree.

The inclusion of aggravated cruelty to animals in the DNA bill is a great victory. This means that we will not only protect future crime victims, but animals as well. Because the crime of aggravated cruelty is part of the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law, it would not have fallen under the crimes where DNA retrieval was required. However, due to Assemblyman Lentol’s efforts, animal cruelty will now be one of the offenses where DNA will be taken.

“It has been proven that cruelty to animals is one of the biggest predictors of future violent crimes. By requiring these offenders to submit DNA samples we advance our law enforcement’s ability to solve these cases and protect future victims,” Assemblyman Lentol said.

“Of course, we also guard the well-being and health of animals. They deserve the utmost protection too,” Lentol remarked.

As chairman of the state Assembly Codes Committee, Assemblyman Lentol has been actively engaged in promoting and protecting animal rights.