HB 5335
Relating to Animal Abuse
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill in West Virginia aims to criminalize sexual abuse of animals by defining the term ‘sexual abuse’ and establishing penalties for various actions related to such abuse. It includes provisions for the forfeiture of animals involved in abuse cases, requiring payment of associated costs, and imposing restrictions on individuals convicted of animal sexual abuse, including potential periods of animal ownership prohibition and mandatory psychiatric evaluations. The bill also addresses circumstances involving children and prior convictions.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘sexual abuse’ of an animal as touching or contacting sensitive areas for sexual gratification.
- Prohibits actions like possessing animals with intent for abuse, advertising for such animals, and forcing a child to participate in abuse.
- Establishes misdemeanor penalties (up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000) for certain violations.
- Increases felony penalties (1-5 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000) for violations involving prior convictions, causing serious injury, or involving a child.
- Requires convicted individuals to forfeit ownership of animals and pay for their care.
- Imposes a minimum period of animal ownership prohibition (5-15 years) following conviction, depending on the severity of the offense.
- Mandates psychiatric evaluations for convicted individuals before probation is considered.
- Requires convicted individuals to pay for their psychiatric evaluations.
Who is affected
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