UK Increases maximum sentence for abhorrent animal crimes

​worldanimalnews.com/breaking-uk-government-to-increase-jail-sentences-for-abhorrent-animal-abusers-from-6-months-to-5-years/

Sticking to their goal of being a world leader in the world of animal rights, the United Kingdom has increased its maximum sentence for serious animal crimes. Increasing from 6 months to a possible 5 year sentence, the U.K. is sending a strong message that animal cruelty and crimes against animals are not tolerated.

When you consider the severity of some of these crimes against animals, 6 months hardly seems like an appropriate sentence. 6 months is more in line with where the sentencing should start for minor offences against animals, certainly not the worst of the worst. 

​What is considered the worst? Although the article  isn't specific, I would imagine things like torturing animals, prolonged physical abuse, sexual abuse of an animal, and sever exploitation would all warrant the maximum penalty. I strongly support this increase in penalty because punishments MUST work as deterrents. With a paltry 6 month maximum sentence, those who intend to commit these heinous crimes against animals would never think twice about committing them. With a stronger punishment associated with animal cruelty, I believe the U.K. will see a drop in cruelty charges. Just the thought of 5 years behind bars should be enough to deter those considering hurting an animal.

The fact of the matter is, the world needs the governments support in fighting animal cruelty. Without appropriate punishments for convictions, we will continue to see awful things happening to animals. Without a government that puts their foot down when it comes to animal cruelty, what's stopping these people from doing what they do? Our government will always be our biggest hurdle. I mean, consider Canada and the seal hunt. Without the government recognizing that the seal hunt is absolutely unnecessary and cruel, it will continue to happen. 

So a big congratulations goes out to the U.K for their dedication to animal welfare. No one is perfect, but these sorts of steps in the right direction NEED to be recognized and celebrated!

Check out the original story from World Animal News by clicking the link at the top of the page!

HAPPY VEG