05/25/2026
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Wednesday May 20th 2026
Steuben County Legislature Adopts Local Law Creating Animal Abuser Registry
The Steuben County Legislature has officially adopted Local Law No. 1 of 2026, establishing an online Animal Abuser Registry aimed at protecting animals and increasing public safety throughout the county.
The new law creates a publicly accessible registry through the Steuben County Sheriff's Office for individuals convicted of serious animal abuse crimes in Steuben County.
County officials say the goal is to help reduce repeat offenses, prevent convicted animal abusers from obtaining pets, and provide additional protections for animals across the region.
Under the new law:
• Individuals convicted of certain animal cruelty offenses will be required to register with the county.
• Registered offenders will be prohibited from adopting, purchasing, or possessing companion animals or pets.
• Animal shelters, pet dealers, rescue organizations, and others transferring ownership of animals will be required to check the registry before completing an adoption or sale.
• The registry will include offenders convicted of crimes such as aggravated animal cruelty, animal fighting, abandonment, abuse, and harming service or police animals.
• First-time offenders will remain on the registry for seven years, while repeat offenders may be listed for life.
The online registry will be maintained by the Sheriff’s Office and available through the Steuben County website.
County leaders say the legislation is designed to strengthen accountability, improve animal welfare, and help ensure safer communities throughout Steuben County.
A public hearing on the law was held May 18, 2026, in Bath prior to final adoption by the Legislature.
