POUGHKEEPSIE – Governor Kathy Hochul signed a new law Monday designed to enhance protection for domestic violence victims, named in honor of Melanie Chianese, a Wappingers Falls woman tragically murdered by her mother’s ex-boyfriend, Paul Senecal, in May 2022.
The law, referred to as Melanie’s Law, addresses a critical gap in domestic violence protection by expanding the jurisdiction of family courts to allow relatives of victims to file for protective orders, a right that Melanie was denied at the time of her death.
Senecal, who had been stalking Melanie and her mother Cheryl after their relationship ended, violated multiple orders of protection against him before ultimately killing Melanie. The new law ensures that family members, like Melanie, who face potential harm from domestic abusers, can seek their own protective orders.
Cheryl Chianese, Melanie’s mother, had been advocating for change since her daughter’s death and worked with local lawmakers to push the legislation. The bill was championed by former Senator Sue Serino and picked up by Senators Michelle Hinchey and Rob Rolison, as well as Assemblyman Anil Beephan. The legislation received bipartisan support and passed after significant effort by both parties.
Governor Hochul reflected on the law’s importance, stating, “Melanie Chianese should be standing with us today, along with countless New Yorkers lost at the hands of senseless and preventable acts of domestic violence.”
Domestic violence, Hochul noted, “leaves a trail of trauma that impacts entire families,” and Melanie’s Law aims to offer greater protection for those suffering the ripple effects of abuse.
The bill, which passed the legislature with strong support, seeks to close the legal loopholes that failed to protect Melanie, ensuring other victims in similar situations are not left vulnerable. Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi commended the law, calling it a significant step forward for victim protection.
The law’s signing took place at the Family Partnership Center, with Cheryl Chianese present, alongside other supporters, including Leah Feldman of Family Services Inc., elected leaders, and members of the community. The new law honors Melanie’s legacy, ensuring her name lives on in the fight against domestic violence.
In related news, Senecal was sentenced to life in prison in April 2023 for the murder of Melanie.