Blue Cross welcomes government plans to increase animal cruelty sentences

Blue Cross is thrilled that the government has announced plans to raise the maximum prison sentence for animal cruelty crimes in England.

Courts are currently able to sentence people convicted of animal cruelty offences to a maximum of six months in prison, but Defra has announced plans for new legislation that will increase the penalty for the most serious cases to a maximum of five years.

Becky Thwaites, Head of Public Affairs at Blue Cross, says: “We’re really pleased the government intends to increase the maximum prison sentence for serious animal cruelty offences to five years. This will bring England in line with other countries, including Australia, Canada, and Northern Ireland.

“Sadly at Blue Cross we see all too often the consequences of pets being abused and know first-hand just how much rehabilitation is needed to help animals overcome the cruelty they have suffered. We hope this increase in sentencing will act as a deterrent and protect animals from suffering.”

We look forward to seeing the government’s draft legislation in full when it is released for consultation in a few months’ time.

The Scottish government announced plans to increase maximum sentences for animal cruelty earlier in September.