Virginia is the only state in the nation that has an animal law unit within its attorney general’s office. The unit, which was created in 2015 by Attorney General Mark R. Herring, serves as a resource for local law enforcement and state agencies on issues involving animal welfare and animal fighting or abuse.
What is Animal Law and Why is it Important?
Animal law is a field of law that deals with the legal status and protection of animals. It covers a wide range of topics, such as animal cruelty, animal fighting, wildlife conservation, animal rights, animal welfare, and animal-related crimes. Animal law is important because it reflects the values and interests of society regarding animals and their treatment. It also has implications for human health, safety, and well-being, as studies have shown that animal abuse is often linked to other forms of violence and crime.
How Does the Animal Law Unit Work?
The animal law unit is led by Michelle Welch, a senior assistant attorney general and a 2011 winner of the Albert Schweitzer Medal, which recognizes outstanding contributions to animal welfare. Welch has extensive experience and expertise in prosecuting animal cruelty and animal fighting cases, as well as providing training and assistance to law enforcement authorities and prosecutors across Virginia and beyond. She has also been appointed a special assistant U.S. attorney for the Western District of Virginia to aid in animal fighting prosecutions.
The animal law unit does not replace or undermine local law enforcement decisions on whether to investigate or prosecute animal-related cases, but rather offers support and guidance when needed. The unit also works with animal organizations, such as the Animal Welfare Institute, the Humane Society of the United States, the Animal Legal Defense Fund, and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, to promote animal welfare and combat animal abuse.
What are Some of the Achievements of the Animal Law Unit?
Since its inception, the animal law unit has handled hundreds of cases involving animal cruelty and animal fighting, resulting in numerous convictions and sentences. Some of the notable cases include:
- The first state seizure of exotic animals in the U.S. in 20 years, involving 119 animals from a roadside zoo in Virginia that were suffering from neglect and poor conditions. The animals were relocated to sanctuaries and the owner was convicted of animal cruelty.
- The largest dogfighting bust in U.S. history, involving 367 dogs that were rescued from multiple states and the arrest of 10 people who were part of a dogfighting ring. The defendants pleaded guilty to federal charges and received prison sentences ranging from six months to eight years.
- The prosecution of a man who tortured and killed a pit bull named Tommie, who was set on fire and left to die in a park. The case sparked public outrage and led to the passage of Tommie’s Law, which increased the penalty for animal cruelty from a misdemeanor to a felony. The defendant was sentenced to five years in prison, the maximum allowed under the law.
What are the Future Goals of the Animal Law Unit?
The animal law unit aims to continue its mission of protecting animals and serving the public interest by:
- Providing ongoing training and education to law enforcement officers, prosecutors, judges, veterinarians, and animal shelter staff on animal law issues and best practices.
- Developing and updating legal resources and materials on animal law, such as manuals, guides, and model ordinances.
- Collaborating with national and international partners to share information and expertise on animal law and to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the field.
- Raising awareness and advocacy on animal law and animal welfare among the public and the media.
The animal law unit is a unique and innovative initiative that demonstrates Virginia’s leadership and commitment to animal law and animal welfare. It is a model for other states and jurisdictions to follow and emulate.
