Understanding the Issue
What’s animal cruelty in Oklahoma? So in Oklahoma, obviously there are laws that protect animals against what the state defines as abuse. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 1680 says, “An animal is a mammal, bird, fish, reptile, either both wild or domesticated.” Now, cruelty to those animals is defined as the willful or malicious torturing, destruction, beating, maiming, mutilation or killing of any of those animals. Once more, regardless of whether you own them, whether they are wild, that does not matter. So depriving an animal of the necessary food, drink or shelter, or if it’s an animal that you own, of necessary medical needs can be considered abuse.
Exploring Possible Offenses and Consequences
Now, if you do take them to the vet and a vet suspects there has been abuse, they are obligated under law to report animal abuse. And that may or may not be followed up by the police or animal control. But if your animal is seized, then you may be asked to post a bond for its care and it may be, and you may be given certain conditions under which you have to follow to keep your animal. And unfortunately also, if your animal needs to be euthanized due to your conduct, then they don’t have to tell you about that. Now, it’s also important to note that this is a felony in Oklahoma. Up to a year in county jail and or prison term of up to five years, up to the judge’s discretion there, in addition to a fine of up to $5,000.
Consultation with an OKC Defense Attorney
If you or someone you know is facing charges of animal cruelty, call the With Law Office – Oklahoma City at (405) 888-5400 to speak to a defense attorney in Oklahoma. An OKC defense lawyer will be in touch with you soon.
