ID H0524

Creates a new felony crime of torturing a companion animal, defined as intentional, knowing and willful infliction of unjustifiable and extreme or prolonged pain, mutilation or maiming done for the purpose of causing suffering.

Establishes first-time torture convictions as a misdemeanor punishable by jail time up to 6 months or fines of $100-$5,000, and subsequent convictions as felonies punishable under section 25-3520A(3)(b).

Elevates a first-time torture conviction to a felony if the defendant was convicted within 10 years of a prior felony involving voluntary infliction of bodily injury upon a human.

Requires courts to order and consider a presentence psychological evaluation of defendants convicted of torturing a companion animal before sentencing.

Revises definitions to clarify that companion animals include domesticated pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, and companion birds, while excluding production animals used for food, fiber, or commercial purposes.