Animal Cruelty In Florida

Under Florida Statute 828.12, it is illegal to commit cruelty to animals. There are two types of animal cruelty in Florida: (1) misdemeanor animal cruelty and (2) felony animal cruelty. The main difference between the two is the misdemeanor animal cruelty involves an isolated event while felony animal cruelty is ongoing pain and suffering. Animal cruelty must be unnecessary or unjustified.  

Animal cruelty crimes often involve an accusation that the defendant confined an animal without sufficient food, water or exercise. Other, common examples of animal cruelty include allegations of abuse or neglect involving dog or cock fighting, locking an animal in a vehicle, or not properly caring for a sick or injured animal.

Penalties in Florida for Cruelty to Animals Crimes

In most cases, the crime of animal cruelty is charged as a first-degree misdemeanor. Although a first-degree misdemeanor is typically punishable by up to one year in jail and up to a $1,000 fine, the animal cruelty statute authorizes a fine of not more than $5,000 as provided in Section 775.083(1)(g), F.S.

If the criminal offense is charged as “aggravated animal cruelty,” then the offense is charged as a third-degree felony. Although a third-degree felony normally authorizes a fine of up to $5,000, the animal cruelty statute authorizes a fine of up to $10,000.

Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with Animal Cruelty, or believe you may be charged in the future, you need a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney; contact Ron L. Baum, P.A. to discuss this important matter. Attorney Ron Baum aggressively defends Animal Cruelty cases for clients throughout Broward County. Broward criminal lawyer,Ron L. Baum, provides a strategic criminal defense to those accused of Animal Cruelty .