Minnesota Statutes Chapter 343 addresses the prevention of cruelty to animals, including the charging statutes, penalties, investigation of cruelty complaints, animal seizure procedures, and the proper care or disposal of animals.
The Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association (MCPA) recently collaborated with a team of animal and justice experts — including Animal Folks (a nonprofit organization), police chiefs, officers, deputies, prosecutors, a retired judge, animal control officers, and animal law researchers — to develop a model policy for Minnesota law enforcement agencies.
This policy provides the basics of Minnesota Statutes Chapter 343 along with a description of the investigation procedures and evidence processing unique to animal cruelty. A better understanding of these details can lead to improved investigations and convictions, and can also be used for a new department policy or added to any existing policy.
In an effort to provide clarity, promote accountability, and build safer communities, Animal Folks has granted full permission for agencies to use the model policy for your police department. This model policy can be accessed here, and all Minnesota law enforcement agencies are encouraged to consider adopting this model policy (or a similar policy), as officers have the duty to investigate any alleged violations of the Minnesota animal cruelty laws.
Questions about this policy can be directed to Ann Olson with Animal Folks at (651) 222-2821 or ann@animalfolks.org. Additional resource materials for law enforcement about animal cruelty, animal law, and investigative procedures can be found at www.animalfolksmn.org.
You may also contact me at tstille@lmc.org or give me a call at (651) 215-4051.
Remember: Responder Safety = Public Safety
Up next: Use of Personal Vehicles for Public Safety and Emergency Lighting
In the meantime, stay safe and be careful -
Tracy
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