Measure
Would Establish Dog Fighting as a Third Degree Crime in the
State
(TRENTON) – Bipartisan legislation sponsored in
part by Assemblyman Gordon Johnson to establish new crimes of “dog fighting” and
“leader of a dog fighting network” passed the full Assembly today. The bill
would also amend the RICO statute to add “leader of a dog fighting network,” to
the list of offenses the state considers racketeering activity in the
state.
“Dog
fighting is deplorable and should be prosecuted as a criminal act,” said Johnson
(D-Bergen). “Unfortunately, New
Jersey has seen far too many cases of this kind of
criminal treatment toward animals in our communities. It’s time to strengthen
state law by imposing stronger penalties for dog fighting and its ring
leaders.”
Under
the bill (A-2379), dog fighting would be considered a crime of the third degree,
which is punishable by a term of imprisonment of three to five years, or a fine
of up to $15,000 or both. The bill would also require the court to order the
seizure and forfeiture of any dogs used for dog fighting or baiting. The
measure would also permit the court to seize other animals or property in the
person’s possession, and prohibit the person from possessing animals in the
future.
“Those
who organize, run or financially back dog fighting operations should receive
tougher punishment as a result of their extensive involvement,” added
Johnson.
In
addition, the bill would define “leader of a dog fighting network” as a person
who conspires with others in a scheme or course of conduct to unlawfully engage
in dog fighting as an organizer, supervisor, financier or manager with at least
one other person. Leader of a dog fighting network would be a second degree
crime, five to ten years in prison or a fine of up to $150,000, or both.
“This
legislation would codify what we already know to be true,” said Johnson. “Dog
fighting is a crime. In NJ, it will be treated as one upon enactment of this
bill.”
The
measure was approved 78-0. It will now go to the Senate for further
consideration.
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