Animal abusers in England could face tougher fines and longer prison sentences for mistreating animals
Animal abusers beware! You could now face longer, tougher prison sentences if caught mistreating our four-legged friends.
The former maximum sentence was six months, but judges looking to hand out harsher punishments pushed the parliament for change, and it looks like they may get it according to The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill introduced in February.
It’s not only judges, but the citizens of England in general, who want harsher penalties for animal cruelty.
According to a study done in 2017, over 70 percent of Brits were in favor of tougher sentencing for animal abusers.
Now those mistreat animals could face up to five years in prison.
The proposed law was introduced by the new Conservative MP for West Dorset, Chris Loder, who said he wanted to take action after finding a dog abandoned by the roadside, which he went on to adopt.
The new maximum sentence would be significantly higher for those who commit the most wicked acts towards animals.
The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill will be introduced into the House of Commons, before moving through to the House of Lords. If passed, it will come into effect in two months after it receives Royal Assent.