Legislation aimed at cracking down on animal fighting in New York State has been signed into law.

The law, sponsored in the Senate by 48th District Sen. Patty Ritchie and signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, prohibits people from owning, possessing, selling, transferring or manufacturing animal fighting paraphernalia.

Animal fighting is a felony in all 50 states, but it’s often difficult to catch an animal fighting event as it happens. By outlawing the possession of fighting equipment, law enforcement officials and prosecutors will be given an extra tool when it comes to catching and punishing offenders.

Violators face up to 90 days in jail, fines up to $500, or both. A second conviction within five years will carry a steeper jail term of up to one year.

Animal advocacy groups such as the ASPCA will incorporate the new prohibition in the animal cruelty training they provide to New York’s police academies, local law enforcement, and animal control officer and veterinarian training on the identification of fighting damage and animal cruelty.

“Animals forced into the barbaric practice of animal fighting are defenseless, and we need to do everything we can to protect them from this cruel and senseless activity,” said Ritchie, a Republican from Heuvelton and a lifelong dog owner.