Animal abusers may soon have their photos posted online

Apr 23, 2015 at 05:15 am by bryan


A bill requiring an on-line registry of people who abuse dogs or cats passed the TN House of Representatives this week. The registry would be similar to the TN Sex Offender Registry. HB0147, sponsored by Nashville Representative Darren Jernigan, would create a Tennessee Bureau of Investigation registry of people who are convicted of aggravated cruelty to animals, animal fighting or a criminal offense against animals.

An "Animal Abuser" is defined by the state as a person who has been convicted in this state of committing an animal abuse offense.

ADVERTISEMENT

"Animal abuse offense" means:

  • (A) Aggravated cruelty to animals, under § 39-14-212
  • (B) Animal fighting, under § 39-14-203, where the defendant's act constitutes a felony
  • (C) A criminal offense against animals, under § 39-14-214
  • (D) Cruelty to animals, under § 39-14-202;

Under the bill, the TBI would post that list on a website dedicated to those convicted of serious crimes against companion animals. For the first conviction, the person's picture would be posted and remain on the website for two years. If convicted of a second offense the length of time would expand to 5 years. The bill has already passed the Senate and now moves on to Governor Haslam's desk.

Read HB0147 Here.

See the progress of the bill Here.

Read about other cities / states proposing a registry Here.

Source:

Partner Station WMSR

Sections: News