MS SB2600

Creates a first-offense felony for aggravated cruelty to dogs or cats, with punishment of a fine up to $5,000 and imprisonment of 1-5 years.

Limits charging to a maximum of 10 counts of simple or aggravated cruelty arising from acts committed at the same time and out of the same set of circumstances.

Requires courts to order restitution to animal owners and mandate psychiatric or psychological evaluation and counseling for those convicted of aggravated cruelty, with costs paid by the offender.

Mandates law enforcement use a uniform offense report form prescribed by the Attorney General when investigating animal cruelty allegations, and requires court clerks to enter dispositions into uniform reports conforming to FBI National Incident-Based Reporting System guidelines.

Effective July 1, 2017.