Florida laws on animal abuse

An entire chapter of the law is focused Florida on the humane treatment of animals. The law covers all animals, wild or domestic, and outlines two main types of animal cruelty. MisdemeanorChapter 828, section 12 of Florida law, entitled Cruelty to Animals, states that anyone who needlessly mistreats, mutilates or kills any animal is guilty of a first degree misdemeanor and can be punished by a fine of up to $5,000 more a jail sentence of up to one year.FelonyThe law also states that anyone who intentionally takes an action that results in the cruel death of an animal, gold who inflicts excessive or repeated unnecessary bread or suffering on an animal, is guilty of a third-degree felony, punishable by a fine of not more than $10,000 and a prison sentence of up to five years.Additional PenaltyAnyone convicted of one of Florida's animal-cruelty charges who is also found to have intentionally tortured or killed an animal will be fined at least $2,500 and sentenced to undergo psychological counselling or complete an anger management treatment program.Repeat OffendersAnyone guilty of subsequent violations will be required to pay a minimum fine of $5,000 and reserve a minimum jail sentence of six months.