Vigil For A Change In MS Animal Cruelty Laws

Local animal rights activists are calling for stronger state laws circling animal protection.
Members of the Justice for Animals campaign and members of the community united, holding up signs and candles in front of the Public Safety Center in Biloxi last night. The group tells News 25 they want to raise awareness to the need for a tougher legal penalty for animal abuse in Mississippi. Animal cruelty is only a misdemeanor in our state. The group decided to have the vigil tonight because two local suspects accused of abusing animals will be appearing in court this week.
Director Of The Justice For Animals Campaign In Mississippi Doll Stanely said “We’re one of three states left in our nation that don’t have a first offense felony for dogs and cats. Not to mention your parrot? I had a turtle for 36 years. I’m sorry but if you tortured my turtle he deserves more than, ‘ Oh well, it was a turtle.”
The vigil was planned after a slew of Mississippi Bills died attempting to increase the punishment for abusing cats and dogs to a first offense felony.
News 25 is following the animal cruelty cases and will have updates as the suspects are taken to court.