The bill S. 427 aims to amend Article 11 of Chapter 3, Title 47 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which addresses the mistreatment of police dogs and horses. The proposed changes expand the definition of prohibited conduct to include actions such as taunting, tormenting, and administering harmful substances to these animals. The penalties for violations are significantly increased, with misdemeanors now carrying fines between $2,000 and $5,000 and imprisonment of 30 days to 5 years. Additionally, felonies related to the torture or killing of these animals will result in fines ranging from $2,000 to $20,000 and imprisonment of 2 to 10 years.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that individuals convicted of such felonies must pay restitution to the law enforcement agency for the costs associated with restoring or replacing the injured or killed animal, including training and veterinary expenses. The legislation also allows for the possibility of a one-year sentence of animal-related community service for offenders. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the protection of law enforcement animals and impose stricter consequences for their mistreatment.