Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo signed legislation July 24 to include animal fighting as a designated offense for an eavesdropping or video surveillance warrant across New York state, including St. Lawrence County.

"This is a particularly cruel and heinous crime, and we must use every tool at our disposal to stamp out these despicable acts once and for all," Governor Cuomo said. "This legislation will give law enforcement new powers to crack down on these rings, protect animals from harm and bring these criminals to justice."

Animal fighting often requires multiple individuals acting in concert, using telephones and web-based communications devices.

Currently, the investigation of animal fighting activities does not qualify law enforcement to receive a warrant to conduct electronic surveillance.

The law authorizes the issuance of eavesdropping and video surveillance warrants for the investigation of animal fighting crimes to provide an important and useful tool to law enforcement intent on ending this horrific crime and to shutting down those who flaunt the state's laws.