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The Jack Russell Terrier puppy -- known as Phoenix -- is recovering at a local animal hospital. Assemblyman Sean Ryan plans to introduce a bill, named for the puppy, that would increase the penalties for felony animal cruelty in New York.

Ryan to introduce 'Phoenix's Law'



Buffalo (WBEN) -- Assemblyman Sean Ryan is announcing a proposal that would increase the penalties for felony animal cruelty.

The proposal is called Phoenix's law,  named for the Jack Russell Terrier puppy who was set on fire and is recovering.  

Ryan says New York ranked in the bottom half of the country in the strength of its punshments for animal cruelty -- with maximum penalties for two years prison time and a $5,000 fine.

"So, we increased that from two years to four years for the prison term, and from $5,000 to $10,000 for the maximum fine," Ryan says.

The legislation would also mandate psychiatric evaluation for anyone convicted of felony animal cruelty.

One of the suspects has already pleaded guilty to the crime, while the other pleaded not guilty.

He also says Phoenix the puppy is recovering well.

Ryan says he'll introduce the proposal in Albany early in 2013. 
 
  


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Topics : Law_Crime
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Locations : BuffaloNew YorkPhoenix
People : Sean Ryan
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