IN HB1075

Upgrades the offense of knowingly or intentionally striking, tormenting, injuring, or mistreating a law enforcement animal from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony

Elevates interference with a law enforcement animal while it assists an officer in performing duties from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony

Removes the previous requirement that serious injury, disfigurement, unconsciousness, or death of the animal occur for the offense to qualify as a felony

Maintains the defense for reasonable acts of training, handling, or discipline by employees or agents of law enforcement agencies

Courts may order restitution for veterinary bills and replacement costs if the animal is disabled or killed, effective July 1, 2012