In Weld County, an accusation of Cruelty to Animals is an all-encompassing crime against any unjust offense towards an animal. Earlier this year, an officer was caught on video shooting a small Chihuahua for barking. The officer was called to the scene due to a woman’s fear that the dog was going to attack her. From the video, it is clear that the dog is attempting to guard her owner or her home from the officer. However, the dog just barks around him. She never actually goes to bite him, but the officer still shoots her regardless. Luckily, the dog survived and was taken to a hospital where she recovered.
Weld County Charge of Cruelty to Animals for Needlessly Injuring an Animal
Furthermore, if this occurred in Weld County, Colorado, the officer would be facing Cruelty to Animal charges, as he needlessly shot this dog. Not only from the dog’s actions is it clear that the shooting was unnecessary. In a comparison of the size of the dog to the police officer, the dog was no threat. Chihuahuas are known for being only a few pounds heavy. And even if this small animal bit the officer, the most damage that could have been done was a slight piercing of the skin. A Chihuahua’s bite is small and weak. For anyone who watches the video, it is clear that regardless of the dog’s behavior, it really could not have done much to harm the officer or anyone else, and that the officer’s actions were animal abuse.
What is Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and Animal Abuse in Greeley?
In Greeley, Colorado, Cruelty to Animals, C.R.S. 18-9-202, and Animal Abuse Charges cover a multitude of issues involving injury to animals. It covers issues from not providing enough food or shelter for them, to engaging in a sexual act with them. This officer’s offense falls under this subsection of the statute:
What is the Punishment for an Aggravated Cruelty to Animals Accusation in Fort Morgan?
Additionally, the punishment for an Aggravated Cruelty to Animals charge in Fort Morgan is a class 6 felony. Simple Cruelty to Animals is a class 1 misdemeanor. An offender might also have to work through their anger management through a treatment program. A class 1 misdemeanor is inclusive of a fine between $500 and $5,000 and 6 months to 18 months in Morgan County Jail. But, a class 6 felony can result in 1 year to 18 months in the Department of Corrections.
HAVE YOU BEEN ACCUSED OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS IN GREELEY OR WELD COUNTY?
If so, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and call the experienced animal cruelty attorneys at the O’Malley Law Office.
Call 970-616-6009 or fill out the Get Help Now form to meet with an affordable criminal defense lawyer in Weld County and the Greeley area for a free consultation.
Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Erda Estremera on Unsplash