Again and again terrible incidents of animal cruelty or animal abuse are reported, however, one often does not learn what happens to the perpetrators.
On the one hand, this is due to the fact that the perpetrator can usually not be found, and on the other hand, that if someone could be caught, the laws are usually so lax that they get off with probation or lighter sentences.
This should now be an end in Australia, as RTL reported.
There, in the state of New South Wales, a new law was passed that is intended to protect animals and punish animal abusers more severely.
Thus, people who mistreat animals must expect a fine of 44,000 U.S. dollars (about 37,000 euros) and a prison sentence of 12 months.
Furthermore, the parliament in the southeast of the country has decided to increase fines and prison sentences for particularly serious offenses.
Companies also face penalties
If one is charged with aggravated cruelty, one faces a fine of $110,000 and a two-year stay in prison.
If the animal abuser is a business that mistreats animals, it faces a fine of up to $550,000, about 462,000 euros.
If animals are completely disregarded, i.e. they are not given food or suitable accommodation, the companies face a fine of 16,500 US dollars and a six-month prison sentence. The fine can also increase to $82,500.
According to Adam Marshall, the New South Wales Minister for Agriculture, the state would now make significant progress on animal welfare as a result of the new law:
Animal cruelty is already unacceptable in his state, he said, and the new measures will now result in many stiff penalties.
A great sign for animal welfare.
Should USA take these measures as an example?
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