NY S00197

Expands the definition of aggravated cruelty to animals under Agriculture and Markets Law Section 353-a to include two distinct offenses: intentional killing or serious physical injury to a companion animal with aggravated cruelty, or intentional physical injury or death to a companion animal during the commission of a felony or immediate flight therefrom

Defines "aggravated cruelty" as conduct intended to cause extreme physical pain or conducted in an especially depraved or sadistic manner

Creates liability for harm to companion animals committed during felony offenses or immediate flight from felonies, even without the specific intent to cause extreme pain required for traditional aggravated cruelty charges

Takes effect immediately upon enactment