Animal cruelty is a severe issue, as seen by the increasing number of incidents recorded every day. That is why the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has proposed a new law that may result in animal abusers serving up to five years in jail. The new rule is intended to bring attention to the seriousness of animal cruelty incidents in England and Wales.
On June 26, the Cabinet adopted a new measure that would raise maximum punishments from six months to five years. The existing maximum punishment of six months does not reflect the seriousness of some of the daily acts of cruelty. It is just not acceptable when criminals are only imprisoned for a few weeks before being freed.
Secretary for the Environment Michael Gove stated: “I am determined to making our nation the finest location in world for animal care and protection.”
“Animal cruelty has no place in our nation.” That is why I am committed to ensuring that those who mistreat animals face the full weight of the law. Our new Bill sends a strong message that this kind of behavior will not be allowed, with a potential term of five years being one of the heaviest in Europe.”
Animal cruelty crimes, such as dog fighting, farm animal neglect, and domestic animal mistreat, are punishable by up to five years in jail under this law. The RSPCA expects that the new law would assist courts in prosecuting animal abusers and will help to end animal cruelty once and for all.
“We need to do more to safeguard our animals, and the RSPCA believes that the new Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill will provide courts the tools they need to punish those who commit the most heinous acts of animal cruelty.”
Remember that if you witness an animal in distress, you may assist by speaking out for it. Please spread the word so that the poor creatures may be protected from brutality, neglect, abuse, and exploitation. They are entitled to a good existence.
