Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a candidate for New York governor, is urging for increased animal protection measures after the rescue of 155 neglected animals from a hoarding situation in Glen Cove. Blakeman made his plea Tuesday at the City of Glen Cove Animal Shelter, emphasizing the critical need for animals to be safe, cared for, and free from abuse and neglect.
The call for action comes after the arrest of a Glen Cove woman, Alena Horbatko, who was found to be keeping over 150 cats and two dogs in unsanitary conditions. Horbatko's 18-year-old daughter reportedly alerted authorities to the deplorable state of her mother's home. The Nassau County SPCA confirmed the rescue of 153 cats and two dogs on June 8.
Horbatko has since pleaded guilty to 67 counts of animal cruelty, two counts of second-degree reckless endangerment, and one count of acting in a manner injurious to a child under 17. She faces an animal ownership ban and is due back in court on August 10.
At the press conference, animal activist Rob Becerra supported Blakeman's position and advocated for the establishment of a statewide Department of Animal Welfare. Becerra argued that such a department would better combat issues like illegal backyard breeding and animal abuse across New York.
"We have a moral and ethical obligation to do right by the most defenseless in our society," Becerra stated. He also criticized New York Gov. Kathy Hochul's administration, asserting it has been "indifferent" to animal cruelty. Becerra recounted confronting the lieutenant governor about a case where a dog was allegedly beaten to death and set on fire.
Representatives from the Nassau County SPCA and the Cove Animal Shelter also highlighted the challenges they face, noting that existing laws can hinder swift intervention. A veteran staffer at the Cove Animal Shelter mentioned that authorities sometimes have to wait for warrants to enter properties, even when aware of potential abuse.
Local animal adoption agencies and pet stores have assisted the Nassau County SPCA in finding new homes for the rescued animals. Allie, an 11-month-old German Shepherd, was among the rescued animals present at the press conference, awaiting adoption.