In response to a recent cat-torture incident on St. John and horse-shootings on St. Croix, Sen. Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg has proposed legislation that would make animal cruelty a felony.
Donastorg, echoing what has been said by sociologists and animal rights activists, said that people who "abuse animals are likely to commit violent crimes against people."
Along with changing the law from a misdemeanor to a felony, Donastorg's proposal would increase the fine for cruelty to animals from $500 to $5,000. He said the current penalties for malicious acts against helpless animals are far too lenient.
Before any laws are changed, Donastorg said in a release, there will be public hearings, to provide ample opportunity for residents to offer testimony on the proposed legislation.
