Researcher: GM Page 1 3/18/21
OLR Bill Analysis
SB 123
AN ACT INCREASING THE PENALTY FOR THE INTENTIONAL
INJURY OF A POLICE ANIMAL OR DOG IN A VOLUNTEER
CANINE SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM.
SUMMARY
This bill increases the criminal penalty for intentionally injuring a
peace officer’s animal or a volunteer canine search and rescue team’s
dog while they are performing their duties under supervision.
Specifically, the bill raises the penalty from a class D to a class C
felony, which increases the (1) maximum term of imprisonment from
five to 10 years and (2) maximum fine from $5,000 to $10,000.
The bill also formally classifies the intentional killing of those
animals as a class C felony. Under current law, this crime is an
unclassified felony with the same maximum imprisonment and fine as
a class C felony.
EFFECTIVE DATE: October 1, 2021
COMMITTEE ACTION
Public Safety and Security Committee
Joint Favorable
Yea 23 Nay 0 (03/04/2021)