This bill amends the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new section, 61-3-27a, which establishes criminal offenses related to willfully causing physical injury, serious physical injury, or death to public safety animals, such as police dogs. The bill repeals the existing law under section 19-20-24, which previously addressed similar issues. The new section defines key terms, including "public safety animal," "public safety officer," "physical injury," and "serious physical injury," and outlines the penalties for various offenses against these animals.

Under the new provisions, individuals who willfully cause physical injury to a public safety animal can be charged with a misdemeanor, facing fines and potential jail time. More severe penalties are established for causing serious physical injury or death to a public safety animal, with felony charges leading to higher fines and longer imprisonment terms. The bill also includes an exemption for individuals who euthanize a public safety animal as part of their official duties and ensures that court-ordered restitution applies to those convicted under this section.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-3-27a, 19-20-24