2008.11.24
McDonnell honored for dog fighting laws
So a couple of dogs, a chicken and a CEO walk into the Virginia attorney general's office...
No joke. A crew of animal welfare-supporters came to Bob McDonnell's office in Richmond this morning to give him a personal "atta boy" for being among the winners of the 2008 Humane Law Enforcement Award, presented by The Humane Society of the United States.
According to a press release from McDonnell's office, Robin Robertson Starr, the Richmond SPCA's chief executive officer brought Waggles, the RSPCA's “spokesdog," their live doggie mascot, Nemo, and a volunteer in a chicken costume with her to congratulate the attorney general.
(That's McDonnell and Nemo in the photo.)
McDonnell was recognized for his part in passing tougher animal fighting laws during the 2008 session of the General Assembly. That legislation, sponsored by Senator Tommy Norment (R-Williamsburg) and Delegate Morgan Griffith (R-Salem), significantly strengthened Virginia’s animal fighting laws.
The legislation:
- Provides that the fighting of any animals is a Class 1 misdemeanor, while dog fighting remains a Class 6 felony. (Editor's note: Spontaneous scuffles in the barnyard are specifically excluded. Guy who called me to argue this point this last year? Please don't ask me again. Thanks.)
- Makes possession of any materials intended to enhance the ability of animals to fight, allowing a minor to become involved in animal fighting, or wagering on animal fighting a Class 6 felony.
- Mandates that animals involved in any such cases may be forfeited to the locality in order to receive humane care. Owners may post bond to retain ownership interest and repossess the animals if the court issues a finding of not guilty.
- Allows law enforcement officers to conduct searches at any time upon the issuance of warrants. Law enforcement officers were often limited to conducting searches during the day, greatly limiting their ability to stop animal fighting operations. (Editor's note:This proves common sense make it into real legislation, at least occasionally.)
McDonnell's office was one of five recipients nationwide of the award. The others were San Bernardino County, Calif.; Hickman County, Tenn.; Pima County, Ariz.; and Prentiss County, Miss.
Congrats to the A.G. and his staff. Job well done.
(Photo courtesy of the Virginia Attorney General's Office.)
