MS HB405

Amends Section 97-17-51 to include cats and other pets alongside dogs as animals protected under felony theft statutes, with penalties of up to $500 fine and/or 6 months county jail, or 1-2 years in state penitentiary upon conviction.

Amends Section 97-17-61 to add cats and other animals to the list of property covered under unlawful taking statutes (separate from larceny), with penalties of up to $1,000 fine and/or 1 year county jail upon conviction.

Requires courts to order restitution for any property damage caused by violations of Section 97-17-61.

Allows guilty verdicts under larceny indictments to be reduced to convictions under Section 97-17-61 if evidence does not warrant a larceny conviction.

Effective date: July 1, 2024.