As one of the largest and oldest Charities in Animal Welfare, Halifax Humane Society would like to urge your support of the bill named Ponce’s Law to help elevate the current felony level and scoring tabulation for the heinous crimes of aggravated animal cruelty that are currently limited by our statute. Our entire community was shocked to learn of the incident that occurred on the night of April 8th, 2017. On that night, a helpless Labrador puppy was purposefully and repeatedly bludgeoned, possibly stabbed and slammed against a wall until his death. To add insult to injury, the community was disheartened to learn that this act carries the same penalty as illegal dumping, theft of a $300+ item or fraudulent use of a credit card. As this story caught traction our entire support base and 62,000 individuals have signed the petition named Harsher Punishment for Animal Cruelty-Ponce’s Law. The group named “Justice for Ponce” in support of the petition with over 12,500 members has grown and heavily supports the necessary change in the law. The malice that affects sentient beings in cases like Ponce’s has a well-researched tie to domestic violence and animal abuse. These acts tend to shock entire municipalities and their residents leaving a lasting impression on our legal system and its effectiveness to deal with alleged criminals who abuse animals. As a steward of humanity and compassion, and on behalf of our 160,000 supporters of Ponce’s Bill and our mission, we ask for your support in our efforts. Though we might not see an end to animal cruelty in our lifetime, we can certainly join efforts to see that the penalty is equitable to the crime committed and hopefully ward off those who choose to act violently against a voiceless victim. Sincerely and appreciatively, Miguel Abi-hassan, CAWA C.E.0. Halifax Humane Society