Experienced Norwalk Animal Cruelty Lawyer Provides Skilled Defense

CT Criminal Defense Attorney Defends Animal Cruelty Case

Chapter 945 of the Connecticut General Statutes (CGS) outlaws certain offenses against humanity and morality. Included in this category of offenses are acts that would constitute cruelty to animals. Animal cruelty convictions can carry serious consequences such as jail or prison time, extensive fines, probation, and more. Therefore, being charged with animal cruelty is not something that any Connecticut resident should take lightly.

Many people look down on animal cruelty defendants, labeling them as sociopaths or psychopaths. Howe’ver, the attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael R. Corsello, LLC understand that not all police reports or charges are accurate, and that people may all too easily be wrongfully charged. Michael R. Corsello will provide the highest quality of representation with zero judgment no matter what your charges entail.

Fairfield, CT Animal Cruelty Laws

Connecticut law defines “animals” as birds and all brute creatures. Under CGS Sec. 53-247, the following actions are illegal in regard to animals:

• Torturing or mutilating;
• Depriving of necessary sustenance;
• Beating or unjustifiably injuring;
• Failing to provide wholesome air, food or water;
• Giving the animal noxious or poisonous drugs or substances;
• Otherwise inflicting cruelty;
• Failing to provide adequate protection from the weather;
• Abandonment;
• Baiting or harassing for amusement or exhibition; and
• Owning or training an animal for fighting for amusement or financial gain.

Additionally, it is against the law to injure or kill a police animal or any dog that is a member of a volunteer search and rescue team.

The law provides for different penalties depending on the specific allegations of each case. For example, most neglectful actions carry a potential sentence of probation, $1,000 fine, and/or up to one year behind bars. If the alleged offense involves intentional maiming, torturing, wounding, mutilating, killing an animal, or involvement in any animal fighting operation, a defendant may face up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both. Finally, if a person is accused of killing a police animal, the sentence could be up to ten years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.

As you can see, the penalties for animal cruelty offenses can be severe and may have a significant impact on your finances and freedom. Limits on future animal ownership may also be imposed by the court. In addition, if you are found guilty of animal cruelty, your reputation will likely be damaged, possibly permanently, and you may feel the effects in your personal and professional life.

Contact an Experienced Stamford Animal Cruelty Lawyer for Help

If you are facing animal cruelty allegations, you do not want to risk losing your case. Criminal defense lawyer Michael R. Corsello knows how to navigate the Connecticut criminal justice system and provide an aggressive defense for animal cruelty charges. Do not hesitate to contact the Law Offices of Michael R. Corsello, LLC for assistance with your case today.