In a decisive move to protect animals and hold abusers accountable, the Livingston County Board of Supervisors has adopted Local Law No. A-2026, creating a public online Animal Abuser Registry.

The law was approved during the Board’s meeting on January 28, 2026, following a public hearing, and takes effect immediately upon filing with the Secretary of State.

Livingston County is making it clear: animal cruelty will not be tolerated, and anyone who harms animals will face serious consequences. The registry will publicly identify convicted animal abusers and prevent them from adopting, purchasing, or otherwise obtaining animals within the County — a critical safeguard to protect innocent lives and reduce repeat offenses.

Under the law, any resident 18 years or older convicted of an animal abuse crime must register with the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, which will maintain the registry online.

“With this law, the board is sending a clear message that the cruel treatment of animals is unacceptable in Livingston County,” said Board Chair David LeFeber. “The Animal Abuser Registry will provide community members, particularly animal shelters, farms, pet sellers, and anyone else involved in the sale, exchange or adoption of animals, with the identities of convicted animal abusers. We want to ensure that all our animals are placed in safe, caring environments and kept away from proven offenders.”

All offenders must register within five business days of release from incarceration or, if not incarcerated, from the date of conviction. Failure to comply is a Class A misdemeanor, carrying fines starting at $1,000 and/or up to one year in prison.

Fines collected will directly support the care and protection of animals through the Livingston County Humane Society or another animal cruelty prevention organization designated by the Board of Supervisors, ensuring that accountability also funds lifesaving efforts.

Under the law:

• First-time offenders remain on the registry for 15 years after release or conviction.

• Repeat offenders remain listed for life.

Registry participants are strictly prohibited from owning animals and may not harbor animals in their home, even if legally owned by someone else.

Animal advocates emphasize that transparency and prevention are essential to breaking cycles of abuse. By making the identities of convicted animal abusers publicly accessible, Livingston County is prioritizing both animal protection and community awareness.