This bill amends the West Virginia Code to classify police canine units and community search and rescue group canines as "law enforcement officers" for the purposes of protecting them under the law. Specifically, it includes provisions that define these canines as law enforcement officers when they are actively working with human officers or members of community search and rescue groups. The bill also stipulates that individuals defending these animals may use reasonable force similar to that which would be used to protect a human officer. Additionally, it clarifies that these animals are not considered state employees and do not receive the same administrative protections.

Furthermore, the bill updates the definitions of "law enforcement officer" and related terms in the context of crimes against persons, ensuring that any crimes committed against these canines while they are assisting law enforcement carry the same penalties as those committed against human officers. This includes malicious assault, unlawful assault, battery, and assault, with specific penalties outlined for offenses against these animals. The intent of the bill is to enhance the legal protections for canines involved in law enforcement and search and rescue operations, recognizing their critical role in public safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 30-29-1, 61-2-10b