Russell A. Spatz

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Animal Cruelty

by | Jan 20, 2023 | Uncategorized |

Animal abuse is defined as inappropriate behavior toward animals that results in pain, stress, or death. It causes the animal’s life to be tormented by the ability to change it physically and psychologically.

Every year, millions of animals die as a result of abuse. Animal abuse not only includes causing them some kind of harm but also abandoning them, not keeping them in good health, keeping them tied up in a small space for a long time, or depriving them of food.

Types Of Animal Abuse 

There are two types of animal cruelty in Florida:

  • Misdemeanor animal cruelty 

Misdemeanor animal cruelty is considered when the animal is in a bad situation and is abused but not with the intention of the owner. For example, the owner of the animal had to go out for a couple of days to look for food since the hurricanes affected his house, so he leaves the animal without food, exposing it to the sun, on the roof of a house, and living in inappropriate conditions for it.

  • Felony animal cruelty

Felony animal cruelty occurs when an animal is abused with the intent to harm it; this crime involves violence, severe consequences for the animal, and even death.

These are some examples of the most common types of felony animal cruelty in Florida.

  • Neglect
  • Hoarding
  • Shooting
  • Fighting
  • Beating
  • Mutilation
  • Throwing
  • Stabbing
  • Burning
  • Vehicular

There are several reasons why an animal can be mistreated, among them ignorance, culture, business, and perversity.

Animal abuse is an unacceptable crime today, affecting both the animals and the abuser. The man exposes himself to the consequences of his acts of abuse, while the animal suffers in silence and often dies due to the negligence of a person.

Penalties For Animal Abuse In Florida

The state of Florida has very strong laws on animal abuse. Many people will think that it is not a serious issue, but in reality, it is something that has a lot of weight in the state.

The penalties for animal cruelty might include up to one year in jail and a maximum fine of $5,000. Most of the time, the felony includes aggravating factors. If during the crime an aggravating factor is found, the crime is considered a third-degree felony. As a result, the penalties for aggravated animal cruelty in Florida could include up to five years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000.

If you have been charged with animal abuse, no matter what situation you find yourself in, trial attorney Russell Spatz has the knowledge and experience to fight for your best interests. He handles nearly all criminal defense matters. 

To arrange a consultation with Russell Spatz, call 305-442-0200 or contact him online.

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