This bill amends the Michigan Code of Criminal Procedure by updating the scoring criteria for offense variable 7, which pertains to aggravated physical abuse. The amendments introduce new language that specifies the scoring system for determining the severity of the offense based on the treatment of victims and companion animals. Specifically, it assigns 50 points for cases involving sadism, torture, or excessive brutality towards a victim, and 25 points for similar treatment of a companion animal. Additionally, it clarifies that if no such treatment occurred, 0 points should be assigned.

The bill also revises the definition of "sadism" to include conduct that subjects either a victim or a companion animal to extreme or prolonged pain or humiliation for the purpose of producing suffering or for the offender's gratification. Furthermore, it changes the language regarding the assignment of points for individuals or companion animals placed in danger of injury or loss of life. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of two other specified bills from the 103rd Legislature.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 777.37