Bill > SB1144

This bill amends Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to add a new section concerning sentencing for aggravated cruelty to animal offenses. Specifically, it directs the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing to create guidelines that provide for a sentence enhancement for aggravated cruelty to animals when a deadly weapon is used in the commission of the offense. A "deadly weapon" is defined broadly to include firearms (loaded or unloaded), dangerous weapons as defined in existing law, and any device capable of causing death or serious bodily injury. This enhancement aims to increase penalties for animal cruelty cases involving the use of such weapons, reflecting the severity of the crime.

Justice

https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/sb1144