Posted on May 9, 2012
Yesterday State Representative David Labriola (R-131) hailed passage of his bill that will increase the penalty for repeat animal cruelty offenses.
Rep. Labriola introduced HB 5289, An Act Increasing the Penalty for Subsequent Offenses of Cruelty to Animals. The bill increases the penalty for a second offense of cruelty to animals by reclassifying it as a felony punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and/or up to five years in prison.
“There is absolutely no justification for cruelty to animals, and repeat perpetrators should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. I am pleased that under this bill, those with a history of mistreatment will receive a stronger punishment that reflects the seriousness that this dangerous pattern of behavior demonstrates.” Rep. Labriola said.
Rep. Labriola added “Those who commit these heinous acts are a risk to the public safety of humans and animals alike. I applaud the support of my colleagues in both the House and the Senate.”
Under existing law, violators may be fined up to $1,000 and/or up to one year in prison for first and subsequent offenses.
The types of abuse are defined broadly to cover cases of neglect, poor living conditions, torture, starvation, mutilation, the baiting of animal fighting and harassment. This measure sends a clear message that animal abuse will not be tolerated in Connecticut.
The bill was passed unanimously in both the House of Representatives and the State Senate.