The FBI has launched a new tip line, offering a $5,000 reward for information and evidence leading to the prosecution of animal abusers. The Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act, a federal law signed by President Donald Trump in November 2019, makes it a federal crime to abuse or torture animals, with penalties of up to seven years in federal prison.
How to Report Animal Abuse
Tipsters with evidence that could help successfully prosecute animal abusers are urged to email the FBI at [email protected]. The Department of Justice (DOJ) said specific evidence, such as photos and videos, as well as detailed descriptions of abuse, including the date, location and name, should be provided.
The FBI’s animal abuse task force, which was created last year, will review tips while partnering with the LA County District Attorney’s Office, the Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles Animal Services, and other state and local law enforcement agencies, according to the DOJ.
The task force will focus on potential animal abuse crimes in the Central District of California, which includes Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
