A significant number of children of battered women hurt or kill animals. Animal cruelty cases almost never reach the District Attorney's office. Witnesses are not willing to file complaints or go to court. Animals cannot testify in court. When and if a case reaches the DA, plea bargaining is the usual procedure.
Convictions are rare, and the penalty is only a misdemeanor.
When there are no court cases, there is no law. The definition of animal abuse is vague. Housing Law Housing law in NYC is such that if an animal has lived in an apartment building containing 3 or more units for 3 months or more and legal actual has not been taken to evict the animal, it can stay, provided the animal has not been deliberately hidden. Before one gives up a wanted pet due to housing problems, consultation with a knowledgeable attorney is advised. The Shelter Director is Scotland Haisley.