§ 10-608. Aggravated cruelty to animals -- Certain activities related to cockfights prohibited

   (a) "Implement of cockfighting" defined. --

   (1) In this section, "implement of cockfighting" means any implement or device intended or designed:

      (i) to enhance the fighting ability of a fowl, cock, or other bird; or

      (ii) for use in a deliberately conducted event that uses a fowl, cock, or other bird to fight with another fowl, cock, or other bird.

   (2) "Implement of cockfighting" includes:

      (i) a gaff;

      (ii) a slasher;

      (iii) a postiza;

      (iv) a sparring muff; and

      (v) any other sharp implement designed to be attached in place of the natural spur of a gamecock or other fighting bird.

(b) Prohibited acts. -- A person may not:

   (1) use or allow the use of a fowl, cock, or other bird to fight with another animal;

   (2) possess, with the intent to unlawfully use, an implement of cockfighting;

   (3) arrange or conduct a fight in which a fowl, cock, or other bird fights with another fowl, cock, or other bird;

   (4) possess, own, sell, transport, or train a fowl, cock, or other bird with the intent to use the fowl, cock, or other bird in a cockfight; or

   (5) knowingly allow premises under the person's ownership, charge, or control to be used to conduct a fight in which a fowl, cock, or other bird fights with another fowl, cock, or other bird.

(c) Penalty. --

   (1) A person who violates this section is guilty of the felony of aggravated cruelty to animals and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $ 5,000 or both.

   (2) As a condition of sentencing, the court may order a defendant convicted of violating this section to participate in and pay for psychological counseling.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, § 59(c)(1)(iv), (2); 2002, ch. 26, § 2; 2004, chs. 120, 121.