New York, NY – After reports in Albany of an almost 24-hour standoff between a black bear cub, which has been shot and also tranquilized, and officers of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) surfaced yesterday afternoon, Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal (D/WF-Manhattan) a member of the Committee on Agriculture and a champion for animal welfare, released the following statement:

“It is my sincere hope that this situation can be resolved without any further harm to the bear,” said Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal. “There are humane options short of killing the bear that strike the proper balance between public safety and humane animal protection. Since this situation unfolded, I have reached out to wildlife experts and sanctuaries that are ready, willing and able to help, and I will continue to remain in close contact with the Governor’s office and the DEC.”

“At this point, the bear has been shot, tranquilized and stuck in a tree for nearly 24 hours; it must be hungry and terrified. The DEC must continue to exercise restraint and patience in dealing with this terrified cub.”