Sen. Tony Hwang & Rep. Brenda Kupchick:

Senate Bill 241 to Protect Law Enforcement K-9s Advances

 Sen. Tony Hwang on Apr. 2 voted in favor of measure, SB 241, that he introduced to better protect law enforcement canines in the line of duty. The bill was passed overwhelmingly by the legislature’s Judiciary Committee and now awaits a vote in the State Senate.

“Intentionally injuring or killing a law enforcement dog in the line of duty is unacceptable, especially given the invaluable role and contributions toward public safety and their essential partnership with human police officers,” Sen. Hwang said.  “This legislation sends a message that such dangerous and fatal attacks on police and search and rescue canines will not be tolerated in Connecticut and will be punished to the highest level under law.”

Rep. Brenda Kupchick (R-132) said, “We must remember that law enforcement and search and rescue dogs put their lives on the line every day for state residents, just like our law enforcement officers and rescue personnel do. These animals are engaged in serious and often dangerous operations from the apprehension of criminal suspects, detection of illegal drugs and bombs, or that can result in injuries or death.  This bill sends a strong message to anyone who commits attacks on our beloved police canines that they’ll face harsh criminal penalties. Let’s protect man’s best friend and our canine law enforcement crime fighters.”

Currently, the federal Enforcement Animal Protection Act punishes those who assault, maim or kill a federal law enforcement animal with a minimum $1,000 fine or potentially 10 years imprisonment.

SB 241 would increase the penalty for intentionally injuring or killing a police or search-and-rescue animal from a Class D felony to a Class C felony. Those convictions could have a mandatory one year up to a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Sen. Tony Hwang (R-Fairfield) today issued the following statement regarding the arrest of former Representative Town Meeting member and former candidate for state representative Ray Neuberger on animal cruelty charges.

“It’s sad. It is sickening. No animal should ever be abused, and as a community we must condemn it. If the allegations are true, he should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and he should get professional help. This tragic story shines a spotlight on the need for us as lawmakers and citizens to continue to press for legal reforms which toughen penalties for animal abusers and raise awareness and education in our community.

“I will continue to be a staunch advocate for animal rights and animal protection policies and will never tolerate any form of animal abuse. I have recently co-sponsored legislation to establish a statewide animal abuse registry as well as a measure to better protect law enforcement canines in the line of duty. I will continue support the efforts of my colleague Rep. Brenda Kupchick, who is recognized as a perennial leader at the State Capitol when it comes to championing animal protection measures.”​

Sen. Hwang Gets Head Shaved to Support Pediatric Cancer Research

Sen. Tony Hwang (left) gives a ‘thumbs up’ sign to supporters on Mar. 16 after getting his head shaved to raise money for pediatric cancer research at the annual St. Baldrick’s “Team Teddy” event held at Osborn Hill School (OHS) in Fairfield.

Originally organized by the local Cub Scouts, this event took on special significance when OHS third grader Teddy Gerber was diagnosed with sarcoma in November 2009. Pack leader Tim Kery offered to hold the 2010 event in Teddy’s honor, resulting in an incredible show of community support.  Teddy, who had lost his hair from chemotherapy, was surrounded by newly-bald friends and family who looked just like him. Teddy’s cancer was rare and aggressive and did not respond to available treatments.  He passed away in August 2010 at the age of nine. Since then, the annual Team Teddy event has raised more than $940,000.

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation (www.stbaldricks.com)  is the world’s largest private funder of childhood cancer research grants. It has raised over $230 million since 2000. Donations raised through St. Baldrick’s fundraisers like Team Teddy support the development of childhood cancer treatments that are as unique as every child. In Connecticut, St. Baldrick’s has funded research grants at both Connecticut Children’s Medical Center and Yale New Haven Hospital, as well as provided stipends for Fellows and funding for Infrastructure at both locations.

Sen. Hwang represents Easton, Fairfield, Newtown, Weston and Westport. On the web: www.SenatorHwang.com.  He can be reached atTony.Hwang@cga.ct.gov and at 800-842-1421.