If this bill were to become law, it would amend current statutes regarding animal cruelty by introducing a new classification for the intentional or knowing killing of a working animal, specifically a police dog acting in the line of duty. Under the proposed changes, this act would be classified as a class 4 felony, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in prison without the possibility of probation or suspension of the sentence. This new provision would be inserted into the existing statute, specifically under subsection I of section 13-2910.

The bill also makes conforming changes to ensure clarity and consistency within the law. It retains the existing classifications for other forms of animal cruelty while adding this specific provision for the protection of police dogs. The language defining "working animal" is clarified to specifically refer to police dogs in the context of this new felony classification. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen penalties for acts of cruelty against working animals, particularly those serving in law enforcement.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-2910