Section 10-608 - Aggravated cruelty to animals - Certain activities related to cockfights prohibited.

§ 10-608. Aggravated cruelty to animals - Certain activities related to cockfights prohibited.
 

(a)  Definitions.-  

(1) In this section, "implement of cockfighting" means any implement or device intended or designed: 

(i) to enhance the fighting ability of a fowl, cock, or other bird; or 

(ii) for use in a deliberately conducted event that uses a fowl, cock, or other bird to fight with another fowl, cock, or other bird. 

(2) "Implement of cockfighting" includes: 

(i) a gaff; 

(ii) a slasher; 

(iii) a postiza; 

(iv) a sparring muff; and 

(v) any other sharp implement designed to be attached in place of the natural spur of a gamecock or other fighting bird. 

(b)  Prohibited acts.- A person may not: 

(1) use or allow the use of a fowl, cock, or other bird to fight with another animal; 

(2) possess, with the intent to unlawfully use, an implement of cockfighting; 

(3) arrange or conduct a fight in which a fowl, cock, or other bird fights with another fowl, cock, or other bird; 

(4) possess, own, sell, transport, or train a fowl, cock, or other bird with the intent to use the fowl, cock, or other bird in a cockfight; or 

(5) knowingly allow premises under the person's ownership, charge, or control to be used to conduct a fight in which a fowl, cock, or other bird fights with another fowl, cock, or other bird. 

(c)  Penalty.-  

(1) A person who violates this section is guilty of the felony of aggravated cruelty to animals and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both. 

(2) As a condition of sentencing, the court may order a defendant convicted of violating this section to participate in and pay for psychological counseling. 
 

[An. Code 1957, art. 27, § 59(c)(1)(iv), (2); 2002, ch. 26, § 2; 2004, chs. 120, 121.]