NY sets misdemeanor for attending animal fights

ALBANY — The possible penalty for attending animal fights in New York is going up. A new law signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo raises the infraction from a violation to a misdemeanor with penalties up to three months in jail and $500 fines. It takes effect in 30 days. Judges already can impose fines up to $250 and up to 15 days in jail for a violation. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says the law should help authorities crack down on dog fights and cockfights where spectators drive the market. The ASPCA says hosting fights on your property and training animals to fight are already felonies in New York. In February, Suffolk County police raided a Long Island rooster fighting operation, arresting two operators and 31 spectators.