NY S03413

District attorneys prosecuting animal abuse charges may petition the court on behalf of impounding organizations to require the accused to post security for animal care expenses, in addition to the impounding organization's existing authority to file such petitions.

Security petitions may be filed at or after arraignment on charges and must result in a court hearing within ten business days; the security amount is determined by the court and must cover reasonable expenses including medical care and boarding for at least thirty days.

When a district attorney files the petition, the defendant and any interested parties with pecuniary interest in the animal must be served with a copy of the petition.

The person posting security is entitled to a full refund upon acquittal or dismissal of charges (except adjournment in contemplation of dismissal), and partial refunds for any unexpended amounts after conviction.

The act takes effect immediately upon enactment.