Trey Porter Law
Texas Animal Cruelty Laws Protect Innocent Creatures
Strict Penalties for Abusers
Texas law enforcement takes animal cruelty seriously, with two types of laws in place to protect animals from harm. The penalties for violating these laws vary depending on the severity of the offense.
Torturing or Killing Animals
One law prohibits torturing an animal or intentionally killing or causing serious bodily injury to an animal. Violating this law is a felony, with penalties including fines of up to $20,000 and imprisonment for up to 10 years.
Killing Animals Without Owner's Consent
The other law prohibits killing an animal without the owner's effective consent. This offense is a misdemeanor, punishable by fines of up to $4,000 and imprisonment for up to one year.
Definition of Animal Cruelty
Texas law defines animal cruelty as any action or neglect that causes unnecessary pain or suffering. This can include physical abuse, abandonment, starvation, and exposure to dangerous conditions.
Animal Cruelty as a Felony
In Texas, animal cruelty is a felony offense, meaning that it is considered a serious crime and can result in severe penalties.
Historical Perspective
Texas has a long history of protecting animals from cruelty, with the state's first penal code adopted in 1857.
Texas Criminal Defense Group
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