NY S04925

Consolidates animal cruelty offenses from Agriculture and Markets Law into a new Article 280 of the Penal Law, creating distinct felony and misdemeanor charges including animal cruelty in the first degree (Class D felony) and second degree (Class A misdemeanor).

Establishes new crimes including promoting animal fighting in the first degree (Class D felony) and second degree (Class A misdemeanor), animal abduction offenses, and unlawful dealing with racing or competitive animals (Class E felony).

Authorizes courts to impose special sentencing provisions including forfeiture of animals, prohibition on ownership of animals for a reasonable period, and restrictions preventing convicted individuals from redeeming forfeited farm animals.

Requires minimum standards for dog shelter when left outdoors in inclement weather and prohibits confining companion animals in vehicles during extreme temperatures without proper protection.

Upgrades penalties for harming police animals and service animals trained to aid persons with disabilities from misdemeanors to felonies, and adds animal cruelty in the first degree as a Class D violent felony offense.