Lawsuit Filed to Enforce Animal Cruelty Laws in Rochester

Animal advocacy group sues Rochester Police Department over lack of enforcement

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A lawsuit has been filed against the Rochester Police Department (RPD) by Against All Odds Animal Alliance Inc., demanding stricter enforcement of animal cruelty laws under Article 26 of the New York Agriculture and Markets Law. The lawsuit challenges the RPD's current practice of deferring animal cruelty investigations to outside agencies like Animal Services and the Humane Society, arguing that Section 371 of the law clearly places the responsibility on the police to enforce these violations.

Why it matters

This lawsuit highlights the ongoing debate around the enforcement of animal cruelty laws and the role of law enforcement in protecting vulnerable animals. Animal advocates argue that delayed intervention can lead to unnecessary animal suffering, while police cite challenges with vague laws and limited resources. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how animal cruelty cases are handled by police departments across New York State.

The details

The lawsuit, brought by the Against All Odds Animal Alliance Inc., claims the RPD is not fulfilling its legal obligation under Section 371 of the Agriculture and Markets Law, which mandates that police officers enforce violations of Article 26 related to animal welfare and cruelty. Currently, the RPD states it responds to animal cruelty calls primarily when Animal Services and the Humane Society are unavailable, a practice that has drawn criticism from advocates who argue this approach can lead to delayed intervention and prolonged animal suffering.

  • The lawsuit was filed against the Rochester Police Department on February 11, 2026.

The players

Against All Odds Animal Alliance Inc.

A local animal advocacy group that filed the lawsuit against the Rochester Police Department.

Matt Albert

The attorney representing Against All Odds Animal Alliance Inc. in the lawsuit against the RPD.

Suzanne Nugent

An animal advocate who has criticized the RPD's approach to responding to animal cruelty calls.

Reno Di Domenico

The vice president of humane law enforcement at Lollypop Farm, who cited the vagueness of existing laws as a challenge in effectively intervening in animal abuse cases.

Rochester Police Department (RPD)

The law enforcement agency named in the lawsuit for its alleged failure to enforce animal cruelty laws.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.