New York State Police starts new initiative to fight animal cruelty
Lavender, as seen shortly after being found. (Mohawk Hudson Humane Society)
ALBANY, N.Y. (WNYT)- New York State Police (NYSP) is expanding training for 200 troopers by partnering with the New York State Animal Protection Federation (NYSAPF) so those trained troopers can better identify and respond to cases of animal cruelty.
“Animal cruelty is not only deeply troubling on its own, but it is often connected to other serious crimes,” said NYSP Superintendent Steven G. James. “This training will help ensure our members have the tools and awareness they need to recognize and investigate these cases effectively.”
There have been multiple high profile cases of animal cruelty in the Capital Region since the beginning of 2025.
Christopher Maxwell was arrested in March and charged with animal cruelty after disturbing video showed him setting a pit bull puppy on fire in a cage at the end of February in a parking lot.
The incident was caught on video by a ring doorbell camera at Elijah Missionary Church on Fourth Street in Albany.
“The NYSP remains committed to working with partners statewide to ensure animal cruelty cases receive the attention they deserve. This training initiative reflects the agency’s broader mission to serve compassionately, uphold the law, and safeguard every community member, two-legged or four-legged.”
From the NYSP release on the new initiative to fight animal cruelty
Latisha Ellis was arrested soon after Maxwell and also charged with animal cruelty after Albany Police said they discovered she was the puppy’s co-owner.
Both Ellis and Maxwell are due back in Albany County Court on May 27 to accept or reject plea deals offered in the case.
Basean Brooks was arrested in April for abandoning a dog with serious injuries to her head and face. The dog, named Lavender by shelter staff at the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, also had an ear that was cut off.
Days after Brooks was arrested, the Rensselaer Police Department asked for the publics help identifying the owner of a 2-year-old dog that had to be euthanized due to poor health.
“Ensuring that law enforcement can properly recognize and respond to animal cruelty is essential to protecting our companion animals,” said Executive Director of the NYSAPF, Libby Post. “We’re proud to work alongside the New York State Police to support this important initiative.”
The initiative seeks to improve animal cruelty case outcomes, build strong relationships with local law enforcement and animal welfare organization as well as increase community safety.