Bill Making Extreme Cruelty to An Animal a Third Degree Felony Passes House

Feb 29, 2008 by Eric Ray

(KCPW News) A measure making it a third degree felony to torture a dog or cat passed the House of Representatives today despite concern from several lawmakers who feel the bill puts the penalty for this form of extreme animal cruelty on par or above those for similar behaviors against people.

"My concern is that if we put cruelty to animals and cruelty or abuse of children on par with one another, and judges are forced to make a determination as to who to release from jail, because of overcrowding, that there would be very little distinction," says Republican Representative Michael Morley of Spanish Fork.

Morley expressed concern that people released from jail after serving a sentence for animal cruelty would be viewed by the public as being the same as those who committed crimes against children - and he called that a slippery slope.

Other legislators warned their colleagues against buying into media spin regarding measures dealing with animal cruelty.

The bill's sponsor, Republican Representative Sheryl Allen of Davis County, reminded the House that her bill relates to extreme torture of animals and says similar crimes against people are sure to receive stiffer penalties.

"That means intentionally or knowingly causing or inflicting extreme physical pain to an animal in an especially heinous, atrocious, cruel or exceptionally depraved manner. That is a very high standard," says Allen. "If that were to happen to a child, God forbid, it's also enhanced."

Allen went on to say that studies have shown those who participate in this type of cruelty toward animals often have the same disregard for human life. First Substitute House Bill 470 passed the House by a 61-6 vote and goes to the Senate for consideration.

Click here for the House floor debate.

Click here to view the bill.

Email to a friendPosted in KCPW Newsroom, Legislative Coverage, and 2008 Legislative Coverage. Copyright 2008 KCPW