BALLSTON SPA, N.Y. – In a decisive step toward protecting animals and holding abusers accountable, Saratoga County is preparing to launch its own animal abuse registry following the recent arrest of two residents accused of torturing dozens of dogs.
On Wednesday, the county’s Public Safety Committee approved a proposal to create an online registry that would list individuals convicted of animal abuse or neglect. The measure comes just weeks after a disturbing animal cruelty case in the town of Milton, where authorities found 55 dogs living in appalling conditions.
Push for Accountability and Prevention
“Despite numerous state laws criminalizing animal abuse and neglect, we continue to see disturbing cases in Saratoga County,” said Phil Barrett, chairman of the County Board of Supervisors and representative of Clifton Park. “This registry is one more tool to protect animals and prevent repeat offenders from flying under the radar.”
The registry would function similarly to those already in place in at least 25 counties across New York, including nearby Albany and Rensselaer counties, according to the New York State Humane Association.
Key Provisions of the Proposed Registry
Under the proposal:
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Individuals convicted of animal abuse or neglect would be required to register with the Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office
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They must do so within 10 days of being convicted, released from jail, or changing residences
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Offenders would remain on the registry for 15 years, or permanently if convicted again
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Registry data would be shared with the Saratoga County Animal Shelter, Child Protective Services, and the Department of Social Services
The registry aims to ensure that convicted abusers are prevented from owning or working with animals and are flagged to agencies that may come into contact with at-risk populations, both animal and human.
The full Board of Supervisors is expected to vote on the measure at their August 19 meeting.
Milton Case Sparks Community Outrage
Momentum for the registry intensified after the July 7 arrest of Matthew Martone, 52, and Tina Coughlin, 47, who were each charged with 55 counts of animal cruelty. A welfare check at their Paisley Road home in Milton uncovered 54 golden retrievers and a chihuahua living in filthy and inhumane conditions, according to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities described the dogs as being coated in feces and urine, with many suffering from signs of neglect and malnourishment. Martone and Coughlin were arrested and later released, pending court appearances in Milton Town Court.
The case shocked the community and prompted swift action from lawmakers and animal welfare advocates alike.
Dogs Rescued, Now in Safe Hands
All 55 dogs have since been surrendered to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter, officials confirmed. The animals were placed into foster and rescue care, where they are receiving proper medical attention, food, and comfort for the first time in what may have been years.
“The shelter and rescue partners have done an extraordinary job,” said a county spokesperson. “These dogs now have a real chance at a better life.”
A Step Toward a Safer Future
If passed later this month, the animal abuse registry will add Saratoga County to a growing list of jurisdictions prioritizing transparency and protection for vulnerable animals. Supporters hope it will not only deter abuse but also provide local shelters and agencies with the tools they need to keep animals safe from repeat offenders.
“We owe it to these animals to make sure this never happens again,” Barrett said. “This registry is just the beginning.”
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