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WobblerCalifornia · Penal Code § 597

Animal Cruelty

Hurting, killing, or not caring for an animal on purpose.

Can be charged as a felony OR a misdemeanor.

What the prosecutor must prove

They must prove every one of these. If one is missing, you should not be found guilty.

  1. 1You hurt, killed, or neglected an animal
  2. 2On purpose or with cruelty

Possible punishment

Misdemeanor: up to 1 year jail. Felony: 16 months, 2, or 3 years.