By Marshall Griffin, KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – Legislation in the Missouri Senate would target illegal dog fighting by going after people who attend the events.
Being a spectator at a dog fighting event is a misdemeanor in Missouri. But State Senator Scott Rupp (R, Wentzville) says his bill would make it a felony to be caught attending dog fights a second time.
"We think by strengthening these penalties, we send a very important message to anyone who watches dog fighting activity, that it is a serious crime and they will be treated under the same law as anyone who actively participates in such activity," Rupp said.
Ledy Van Kavage, an attorney with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, testified in favor of the bill at a hearing Monday night at the State Capitol.
"Dog fighting is a very, very vicious sport. It is a blood sport. These people are not nice guys, and they should be prosecuted," Van Kavage said.
No one spoke in opposition to the bill at the hearing.
The bill would also allow disposition hearings within 30 days of any seizure of dogs believed to be used in illegal fights.
Rupp says that provision would speed up the legal process and cut costs local governments have to pay for feeding and housing seized dogs.
A vote on the bill by the Senate Judiciary Committee will be held at a later date.