WV HB2628

Adds a new definition of "police service canine" as any dog used by a law enforcement agency, handled by a law enforcement officer, and specially trained for law enforcement work or contracted to assist in law enforcement duties

Expands the definition of "law-enforcement officer" to include police service canines, making attacks on K-9s subject to the same criminal penalties as attacks on human officers

Malicious assault on a police service canine with intent to maim, disfigure, disable, or kill would be a felony punishable by 3-15 years in a correctional facility

Unlawful (non-malicious) assault causing bodily injury to a police service canine would be a felony punishable by 2-5 years in a correctional facility

Battery against a police service canine would be a misdemeanor for first offense (up to $500 fine and/or 1-12 months jail), escalating to felony charges for repeat offenses