1. (a)

   1. (1) In this section, “implement of cockfighting” means any implement or device intended or designed:

      1. (i) to enhance the fighting ability of a fowl, cock, or other bird; or
      2. (ii) for use in a deliberately conducted event that uses a fowl, cock, or other bird to fight with another fowl, cock, or other bird.

   2. (2) “Implement of cockfighting” includes:

      1. (i) a gaff;
      2. (ii) a slasher;
      3. (iii) a postiza;
      4. (iv) a sparring muff; and
      5. (v) any other sharp implement designed to be attached in place of the natural spur of a gamecock or other fighting bird.

2. (b) A person may not:

   1. (1) use or allow the use of a fowl, cock, or other bird to fight with another animal;
   2. (2) possess, with the intent to unlawfully use, an implement of cockfighting;
   3. (3) arrange or conduct a fight in which a fowl, cock, or other bird fights with another fowl, cock, or other bird;
   4. (4) possess, own, sell, transport, or train a fowl, cock, or other bird with the intent to use the fowl, cock, or other bird in a cockfight; or
   5. (5) knowingly allow premises under the person's ownership, charge, or control to be used to conduct a fight in which a fowl, cock, or other bird fights with another fowl, cock, or other bird.

3. (c)

   1. (1) A person who violates this section is guilty of the felony of aggravated cruelty to animals and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.

   2. (2) As a condition of sentencing, the court may:

      1. (i) order a defendant convicted of violating this section to:

         1. 1. participate in and pay for psychological counseling; and
         2. 2. pay, in addition to any other fines and costs, all reasonable costs incurred in removing, housing, treating, or euthanizing an animal confiscated from the defendant; and
      2. (ii) prohibit a defendant from owning, possessing, or residing with an animal for a specified period of time.

Added by Acts 2002, c. 26, § 2, eff. Oct. 1, 2002. Amended by Acts 2004, c. 120, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2004; Acts 2004, c. 121, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2004; Acts 2018, c. 238, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2018; Acts 2019, c. 61, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2019; Acts 2019, c. 62, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2019.

Formerly Art. 27, § 59.