A Deadly Loophole Closed in New York Domestic Violence Law
Gov. Kathy Hochul signed “Melanie’s Law” during an emotional ceremony in Poughkeepsie on Monday, addressing a fatal gap in New York domestic violence legislation.
The law, named after Melanie Chianese, aims to protect family members of domestic violence victims, regardless of their age. Melanie, 29, was tragically murdered in 2022 by the abusive ex-boyfriend of her mother, Cheryl Chianese-Cavalli. Despite Cheryl’s efforts to obtain orders of protection for herself and her grandson, she was unable to secure the same protection for her daughter under previous New York laws.
Speaking at the ceremony, Gov. Hochul emphasized the importance of closing this loophole, stating, “When the abuser couldn’t get to her, he took it out on the most beloved person in her life.”
The perpetrator, Paul Senecal, is currently serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole for the senseless crime in Dutchess County.
Following Melanie’s tragic death, Cheryl Chianese-Cavilli, along with state lawmakers, advocated for legislative change to extend protections to all family and household members of domestic violence victims. This bipartisan effort led to the passing of “Melanie’s Law” in May, sponsored by Hudson Valley state Sen. Michelle Hinchey.
The new law expands protections for domestic violence victims to include all their family and household members, ensuring a more comprehensive safeguard against abusers.
As Gov. Hochul signed the legislation into law, Cheryl Chianese-Cavalli remembered her daughter on what would have been Melanie’s 32nd birthday. She shared Melanie’s aspirations to become a certified drug and alcohol counselor and expressed that “Melanie’s Law will save lives, and her legacy will live forever in our hearts.”
