WV SB151

Creates new criminal offenses for willfully injuring or killing public safety animals (dogs and other animals trained to assist law enforcement, fire, correctional, or emergency services officers)

Establishes tiered penalties: physical injury is a misdemeanor (up to $1,000 fine and/or 1 year jail); serious physical injury is a felony (up to $3,000 fine and/or 1-5 years imprisonment); causing death is a felony (up to $5,000 fine and/or 2-10 years imprisonment)

Allows individuals to exercise the right of self-defense on behalf of a public safety animal

Exempts persons who euthanize injured, ill, or infirm public safety animals as part of their official duties

Adds the felony provisions of this new section to the list of qualifying offenses for enhanced recidivist (repeat offender) sentencing under West Virginia law