Patrick's Law

Patrick's Law S 1303 was passed by the Senate in New Jersey today.
"Patrick's Law" -  a measure to increase penalties for animal cruelty is on it's way to Gov. Chris Christie's desk after gaining final passage in the state senate.

The bill is dubbed "Patrick's Law" after a heart-wrenching story of Patrick, a starving pitbull who was left for dead in Newark but was rescued.

"Caring for an animal is a high privilege that starts with basic love and care" said Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean, Jr. ( R- Union), a sponsor
" Exceptionally weak, pathetic and down right evil people abuse animals and they must be punished accordingly."

Under the measure, starving or abusing an animal would be upgraded to a fourth degree crime, up from a disorderly persons offense.  If the animal dies, it would be a third degree offense.

Civil Penalties would increase from $1,000 to $3,000 for a first offense and from $3,000 to $5,000 for subsequent offenses.
Penalties for dog fighting and jeopardizing an animal's health by leaving it unattended in a hot car would also be upgraded.
This law passed both the Assembly and the Senate with all yes votes.

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