Beginning this month, stricter penalties will be enforced on someone who abuses an animal.

The bill was signed into law by former Governor Snyder and includes two legislations:

  • Increases the maximum prison sentence from 4 to 10 years for killing or torturing an animals
  • Up to 10 years in prison for causing emotional distress to a person because of harming or killing an animal

According to the State's Fiscal Agency, animal abusers typically get off easy, avoiding jail time.

There were 40 violations in 2016, with no offenders sent to prison and five sent to jail. (via WWMT)

Legislators are hoping this will force judges to rule stronger sentences.