PETITION TARGET: Delaware Lawmakers
Over 725 animals in the state were victims of cruelty according to Delaware Animal Services‘ most recent annual report from 2024. That horrifying number reflects only those animals whose cases of “abuse, abandonment, cruel neglect, or animal fighting” were reported to authorities. Too often, those who harm animals are met with minimal legal consequences — even when cruelty occurs multiple times.
Now, a state bill — HB 134 — has been introduced in Delaware to enhance penalties for those who repeatedly abuse animals.
The measure would require that anyone with two prior Class A misdemeanor animal cruelty convictions be charged with a Class F felony for any additional animal cruelty offenses, which would normally be misdemeanors. This change would raise the maximum sentence from one year in jail to up to three years.
Additionally, after a first conviction for animal cruelty classified as a Class F felony, any subsequent felony animal cruelty violations would be charged as a Class E felony, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in jail.
The proposed legislation also states that a second felony conviction for animal cruelty would result in a lifetime ban on possessing animals, without exception.
Too often, those who harm animals continue to reoffend, and face minimal repercussions for their actions. This legislation is a vital step toward ensuring abusers are held accountable, and that animals are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Sign our petition urging Delaware lawmakers to support this measure and strengthen penalties for animal cruelty.
