IL HB0168

Law enforcement officers may seize companion animals during arrests for animal cruelty or related offenses under Sections 3.01, 3.02, 3.03, 4.01, or 7.1 of the Humane Care for Animals Act.

Officers must file an affidavit with the court describing the animal's condition and custody details, with seized animals placed in animal control or shelter custody pending trial or court order.

The State's Attorney may file a "petition for forfeiture prior to trial" within 14 days of seizure, requiring the prosecution to prove by preponderance of evidence that the defendant violated specified animal cruelty laws.

Upon conviction for animal cruelty, the court may order forfeiture of the animals involved and prohibit the convicted person and household members from owning or possessing animals for a reasonable period.

Persons convicted of 2 or more violations of animal cruelty statutes (Sections 3.02, 4.01, or Criminal Code Section 48-1) may be permanently prohibited from owning, harboring, or controlling any animals.