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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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CONTACT:
Roseann R. Cadau |
State Rep. Chris
Sainato |
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Sainato wants to further punish animal abusers
HARRISBURG, Jan. 30 – State Rep. Chris Sainato, D- Lawrence/Beaver, will soon introduce legislation designed to increase fines and penalties for people convicted of animal cruelty violations.
Sainato’s proposal would increase the minimum fine from $1,000 to $2,500 and increase the required prison sentence from two years to up to five years.
Citing an abusive incident in the Pittsburgh area involving a five-month-old puppy, Sainato said it’s about time the law was strengthened to further penalize animal cruelty. According to the Washington Area Humane Society, the dog’s owner claimed he was reprimanding the animal for urinating in the house and did not think there was anything wrong with his actions.
“This innocent puppy was beaten with a wooden bat, thrown against a trailer and suffered life-threatening injuries,” Sainato said. “This type of brutal behavior deserves stricter fines and sentences.”
According to the Washington Area Humane Society, the case is currently under investigation.
In addition, Sainato plans to introduce legislation that would require people convicted of animal cruelty to undergo a psychological evaluation in an effort to prevent further violent behavior.
Sainato represents constituents in the 9th Legislative District.
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