The governor recently ceremonially signed into law a bill co-authored by State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) to combat animal cruelty and abuse.
Indiana has seen troubling stories in recent years of animal cruelty, neglect, pet theft and harm to law enforcement animals. House Enrolled Act 1165 responds directly to these concerns by modernizing and strengthening Indiana's animal cruelty laws.
"This gives law enforcement the tools they need to hold animal abusers accountable," Baird said. "Indiana will not turn a blind eye to animal cruelty, and this law reinforces our commitment to preventing it."
Under the new law, liability for damages is removed when a person rescues a pet from an unsafe, locked vehicle. Furthermore, it enhances the theft of a pet from a misdemeanor to a felony, creates harsher penalties for the killing of a law enforcement animal and adds stricter language to the crimes of torture, abandonment and neglect of an animal.
Shelby, Hancock County prosecutors receive grants to fight sexual and domestic violence
Ex-postal worker admits to stealing checks in massive $34 million fraud scheme
Decatur County law enforcement issues scam warning
IDHS warns against disaster assistance fraud
Smithland Road to reopen to traffic Thursday afternoon
Area fire departments receive FEMA grants for operation and safety
State Rep. Crider recognized for supporting individuals with substance use disorders
Indiana American Water returns nearly $75 in PFAS settlement credits to customers
