IL HB4630

Law enforcement officers making arrests for animal cruelty violations under specified sections may lawfully take possession of some or all companion animals in the arrested person's possession.

Officers must file an affidavit with the court describing the animal condition, seizure details, and animal ownership information, and deliver an inventory of seized animals to the court.

Seized animals must be placed in animal control or animal shelter custody, or impounded on-site if no facility capacity exists, pending court adjudication of charges.

State's Attorney may file a "petition for forfeiture prior to trial" within 30 days after seizure (increased from 14 days) to seek permanent forfeiture of seized companion animals, with the prosecution bearing the burden of proof by preponderance of the evidence.

Upon conviction or supervision order for animal cruelty violations, courts may order forfeiture of animals involved and may prohibit the convicted person and household members from owning or possessing any animals for a reasonable period up to permanent relinquishment.