Recently, a man in Arizona was charged with animal cruelty for leaving a collar intended for an 8 lbs. dog on a 35 lbs. dog. The collar caused a neck injury as it cut into the dog’s neck. The owner claimed that the dog wouldn’t come to him when called so he couldn’t remove the collar.
What Constitutes as Animal Cruelty in Arizona?
In Arizona, there are numerous statutory definitions of cruelty to animals including intentionally, knowingly or recklessly subjecting any animal under the person’s custody or control to cruel neglect or abandonment. Cruel neglect is defined as failing to provide an animal with necessary food, water or shelter. Abandonment is not specifically defined by the statute and would likely be given it’s common definition.
Charges for Animal Cruelty
Animal cruelty is most often charged as a misdemeanor but in some more serious cases can also be charged as a felony. If you have been charged with animal cruelty, seek the advice of a qualified criminal defense attorney.
Schedule your free criminal defense consultation with Arizona criminal defense attorney Jeremy Geigle.