NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — Three Suffolk County businesses were charged after they sold baby chicks illegally.
The Suffolk County District Attorney's Office said it is illegal to sell, barter or give away baby chicks that are less than two months old in quantities of less than six.
In addition, the law prohibits the "offer for sale, barter or display living baby chicks, ducklings or other fowl or baby rabbits which have been dyed, colored or otherwise treated so as to impart to them an artificial color." Any violation of this law may result in a misdemeanor charge punishable with up to one year in jail and a $500 fine.
Around Easter each year, authorities step up their efforts to address this issue.
Suffolk County Police Detectives purchased four baby chicks on March 4 that were only a few days old from Long Island Poultry on Sound Avenue in Calverton.
On March 23, detectives purchased three baby chicks that were only a few days old from Raleigh Poultry Farm, Inc., on Old Indian Head Road in Kings Park.
Detectives purchased two baby chicks that were only a few days old from Agway of Port Jefferson on 25A, located in Mount Sinai.
"I remind everyone that animals are not toys or merchandise, and my office will continue to protect animals by enforcing the laws regarding their care and sale," said Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney in a statement.
The businesses are due to be arraigned on the charges on April 24.
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