ASPCA and NYPD Establish Groundbreaking Partnership that Vastly Expands Protection for New York City’s Animals

Historic Collaboration Elevates Importance of Preventing Animal Cruelty

NEW YORK— The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) and the New York City Police Department (NYPD) announced today a broad strategic collaboration to provide enhanced protection to New York City’s animals by leveraging the strengths and expertise of both organizations. Under the agreement, the NYPD will take the lead role in responding to all animal cruelty complaints in the five boroughs, while the ASPCA will expand its direct care and forensics work to assist law enforcement officials by providing critical support for animal cruelty victims, including forensic evaluations, medical treatment, behavior assessments, housing and placement, as well as backup legal support and training.

The partnership will officially launch on September 1, beginning with a pilot in the Bronx. The program will expand citywide in early 2014. In the interim, animal cruelty complaints that originate in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island will continue to be handled by agents from the ASPCA’s Humane Law Enforcement department.

With a small group of New York State peace officers, the ASPCA has voluntarily enforced New York State animal cruelty laws in the five boroughs since the organization was founded in 1866. However, the modern realities of New York City life call for a new approach—one that will provide broader protection for the City’s animals.

For more information visit aspca.org