Steuben County has established an online Animal Abuser Registry aimed at protecting animals and increasing public safety throughout the county.
The Steuben County Legislature officially adopted a local law May 18 after a public hearing on the proposal.
The law creates a publicly accessible registry through the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office for individuals convicted of serious animal abuse crimes in Steuben County, said Eddie VanStine, a Steuben County spokesperson.
Steuben County officials said the goal is to help reduce repeat offenses, prevent convicted animal abusers from obtaining pets, and provide additional protections for animals across the region.
Under the new law:
The online registry will be maintained by the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office and available through the Steuben County website.
Steuben County leaders said the legislation is designed to strengthen accountability, improve animal welfare, and help ensure safer communities throughout Steuben County.
This article originally appeared on The Leader: Steuben County adopts online animal abuse registry. What new law does
Reporting by Jeff Smith, Corning Leader / The Leader
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