BELMONT, N.Y. — Allegany County lawmakers have unanimously approved a new local law creating an Animal Abuser Registry.

The moves aims to identify people who are convicted of animal abuse and addresses what officials say is a documented link between animal cruelty and violence against people.

The Allegany County Legislative Board adopted the law during its Dec. 10 meeting, establishing the Allegany County Animal Abuser Registry. The registry will identify individuals within the county who have been convicted of animal abuse offenses.

Board members cited research showing a strong correlation between animal abuse and domestic violence, noting that people who abuse animals are statistically more likely to commit violent acts against other individuals.

Legislator Gretchen Hanchett undersco

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