DA Rice creates unit to combat animal cruelty

Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice announced Monday the creation of a unit dedicated to handling animal cruelty cases and the formation of a hotline for residents to report suspected cases of animal abuse.

The unit will handle misdemeanor and felony cases including animal abandonment, neglect, severe physical abuse and domestic violence-related abuse "such as violence exacted against a significant other's pet," the district attorney said.

Prosecutors in the Animal Cruelty Unit also will give presentations to animal rights groups and train law enforcement agencies.

"This newly created unit will give a voice to the victims of animal abuse, and send the message that the abuse and neglect of animals is not tolerated in Nassau County," Rice said in a statement.

Nassau residents who suspect animal abuse are urged to call the hotline at (516) 680-8624. Callers will remain anonymous.