Indiana Code 35-46-3-11.3. Cruelty to a search and rescue dog
(b) A person who knowingly or intentionally:
Attorney's Note
Under the Indiana Code, punishments for crimes depend on the classification. In the case of this section:| Class | Prison | Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Level 6 felony | between 6 mos. and 2 1/2 years | up to $10,000 |
| Class A misdemeanor | up to 1 year | up to $5,000 |
Terms Used In Indiana Code 35-46-3-11.3
- Conviction: A judgement of guilt against a criminal defendant.
- Restitution: The court-ordered payment of money by the defendant to the victim for damages caused by the criminal action.
(2) strikes, torments, injures, or otherwise mistreats a search and rescue dog;
commits a Class A misdemeanor.
(c) An offense under subsection (b)(2) is a Level 6 felony if the act results in:
(1) serious permanent disfigurement;
(2) unconsciousness;
(3) permanent or protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member or organ; or
(4) death;
of the search and rescue dog.
(d) It is a defense that the accused person:
(1) engaged in a reasonable act of training, handling, or disciplining the search and rescue dog; or
(2) reasonably believed the conduct was necessary to prevent injury to the accused person or another person.
(e) In addition to any sentence or fine imposed for a conviction of an offense under this section, the court may order the person to make restitution to the person who owns the search and rescue dog for reimbursement of:
(1) veterinary bills; and
(2) replacement costs of the dog if the dog is disabled or killed.
As added by P.L.9-2003, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.158-2013, SEC.564.