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What constitutes animal abuse in Oregon?

For many people in Oregon, their animals are a part of their family. People will go out of their way to do anything for their pet animals. Likewise, some owners treat their pets with luxuries to make their lives more comfortable.

However, there are situations where animals may not be treated with the utmost care. In these situations, authorities may choose to bring animal cruelty charges. Animal owners throughout Oregon should understand when authorities can bring these types of charges. With this knowledge, people can avoid these situation and thus not have to face the consequences of criminal charges.

Under section 167.320 of the Oregon criminal code, a person can be charged with animal abuse in the first degree in two situations. If the person causes serious physical harm to an animal in an intentional, reckless or knowing manner, then the person can face animal abuse charges. Additionally, if a person recklessly, knowingly or intentionally acts cruelly toward an animal, and that behavior results in the animal's death, the person can also face first degree animal abuse charges.

Under this Oregon law, animal abuse in the first degree is a Class A misdemeanor. These charges can be elevated to a Class C felony in certain situations. For example, if the person has certain prior convictions on their record, an animal abuse charge can be treated as a felony.

A person could also face animal abuse charges in the second degree under section 167.315 of the Oregon criminal code. This occurs when a person knowingly, recklessly or intentionally causes physical injuries to an animal. In this case, Oregon residents can face a Class B misdemeanor.

In any situation, good animal care practices will not result in criminal charges.

Misdemeanor charges, like animal abuse charges, can result in a variety of penalties and can have a serious effect on a person's life. People who are facing criminal charges of any kind should understand their criminal defense options. While this blog post only provides general information, an attorney can give specific legal advice based on a person's particular situation.

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