The bill, titled "Dexter's Law," aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding aggravated animal cruelty in Florida. It amends section 828.12 of the Florida Statutes to require the Department of Law Enforcement to maintain and publicly post on its website the names of individuals convicted of animal cruelty offenses, effective January 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill introduces a sentencing multiplier for aggravated animal cruelty offenses under section 921.0024, which will increase the subtotal sentence points by 1.25 for offenders who have committed acts of knowing and intentional torture or torment of animals that result in injury, mutilation, or death.

The bill also clarifies that the term "animal" does not include those used for agricultural purposes or permitted as captive wildlife. The effective date for the provisions of this act is set for July 1, 2025. Overall, the legislation seeks to strengthen penalties for animal cruelty and improve public awareness of offenders through the online registry.

Statutes affected:
H 255 Filed: 828.02, 921.0024
H 255 c1: 921.0024
H 255 e1: 921.0024
H 255 er: 921.0024