INDIANAPOLIS — The Corrections and Criminal Law Committee voted down Senate Bill 41 (SB41) last week. This bill pushes for harsher penalties for acts of animal cruelty.
SB 41 was proposed by Sen. J.D. Ford (D-Indianapolis). The bill would change animal cruelty charges from a Level 6 felony to a Level 5.
A Level 6 felony is considered the least serious felony in the state of Indiana. Those facing a Level 6 felony receive a sentence that ranges from six months to two and a half years in prison, and an advisory sentence of one year. Other Level 6 felonies include shoplifting, drug paraphernalia possession and resisting arrest.
Judges can also choose to reduce Level 6 felonies into Class A misdemeanors. The penalty for a Class A misdemeanor is 0 to 365 days in prison, and a fine of up to $5,000.
Changing animal cruelty offenses to a Level 5 felony would mean those facing charges would receive a sentence that ranges between one and six years in prison, and an advisory sentence of three years.
The bill failed on a 3-4 vote.
Although SB 41 did not pass, Sen. Ford and others who serve on the committee passed House Bill 1306 (HB 1306), which raises the killing of police dogs to a Level 5 felony.
HB 1306 will go to the Senate in upcoming months.
-
Authorities searching for man suspected of assault on Monroe County nature trail
An assault disrupted the usual calm at Karst Farm Greenway, prompting a Monroe County Sheriff's Office investigation.
'It transports you': Local businesses await Nickel Plate Trail completion
Local businesses located around the Nickel Plate Trail are sharing their excitement about the new green space as it nears the end of construction.
Community leaders launch plan to transform Far East Side’s future
Community leaders on the Far East Side of Indianapolis are developing a long-term quality of life plan aimed at reshaping the neighborhood’s narrative and expanding opportunities for residents.
'We can't take it anymore': Braun appoints new utility consumer commissioner
Abby Gray will lead the office, which Braun says will work to evaluate utilities' profits and help implement cost-saving measures to reduce the burden on Indiana ratepayers.
