In the Chamber of Palazzo Madama, the measure that provides for the harsher penalties for crimes against animals passes with a show of hands.
The bill, whose first signatory is NM MP Michela Vittoria Brambilla , thus becomes definitive given that it had already been approved by the Chamber last November and has not undergone any changes in the Senate.
The text actually aims to strengthen the rules on crimes related to mistreatment and abuse of animals . Among the changes introduced to the Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code, there is one that specifies how the objective is to "directly protect animals" and no longer the "feeling for animals" on the part of human beings. In this way, it was underlined in the Chamber by almost all the representatives of the majority, animals are thus placed "at the center of legal protection, recognizing their rights independently of our way of perceiving them".
The changes introduced by the law also involve harsher penalties for those who commit crimes against animals.
In detail:
- Organizers of events or competitions where they are subjected to violence will see their fines increased from 15,000 to 30,000 euros.
- In the case of animal fights, those who organize them face 2 to 4 years of imprisonment, with fines of up to 30,000 euros for those who participate.
- Anyone who kills an animal risks prison from 6 months to 4 years and a fine of up to 60,000 euros. Even more severe penalties are available in the case of mistreatment: up to 2 years in prison and no alternative financial sanctions are available.
- The ban on "killing the animals involved, which must remain in custody until the end of the trial" is then introduced.
- Animal welfare associations will be able to request a review of the seizure to ensure the best possible treatment. In the case of habitual crimes, prevention measures will be similar to those already foreseen for mafia-type crimes. Strict measures will also be taken against abandonment and illicit trafficking.
- Harsher penalties for illegal imports. Ban on keeping pets chained. Fines for those who do so can reach up to 5,000 euros.
- The methods of coordination between police forces are changing to facilitate the identification and repression of crimes. Finally, a special section is being established in the police force database to collect and analyze all information relating to this type of crime.
- Total ban on the commercial use of domestic cat fur. The introduction of the new rules will not lead to an increase in government expenditure.
(Online Union)