Mass. Senate GOP push anti-animal cruelty bill

BOSTON (AP) — Animal abusers would face tougher penalties under a bill Senate Republicans are pushing on Beacon Hill.

Sen. Bruce Tarr said the legislation is a response to the discovery of a dog found tortured in Quincy.

The dog could not be saved and was euthanized last month. Police have asked for the public's help in identifying those responsible.

The bill would increase the maximum penalty for cruelty to animals — including malicious killing, maiming, disfiguring, or exposing to poison — from $2,500 to $10,000.

The bill would also increase the fine for the hit-and-run of a cat or dog from $50 to $2,000.

The Gloucester Republican said the bill would also establish an anonymous animal abuse tip hotline. It also would create a registry of individuals convicted of animal abuse and fine veterinarians who fail to report suspected animal cruelty.

Cox Media Group