The HSUS Urges Kentucky House of Representatives to Pass 'Romeo’s Law'

March 27, 2008

The Humane Society of the United States, along with more than 30 animal protection groups throughout Kentucky, is urging the leadership of the Kentucky House of Representatives to bring S.B. 58 up for a vote in the full House. The bill, which would make it a first offense felony to torture a dog or cat, passed the Senate on March 12 by a resounding vote of 36-1. 

Lawmakers named S.B. 58 "Romeo's Law," in honor of an 8-month-old yellow Labrador retriever who was beaten in Pulaski County. Neighbors taped the tragedy, resulting in the arrest of Ronald Shawn Turner. He was later found guilty of animal cruelty and a judge sentenced him to pay a fine and serve time in prison.

Kentucky has had several other animal cruelty cases this year which have received widespread attention.

The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and all manner of other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault. 

"Those who abuse animals can be dangerous to people," said Pam Rogers, The HSUS' Kentucky state director. "We need this upgrade in our cruelty statutes to serve as a deterrent to those folks who would do horrific acts of torture to dogs and cats. We need to send a message that our state has no tolerance for this type of violence against animals." 

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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization — backed by 10.5 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the web at humanesociety.org.