1. 1. If a person from whom a dangerous wild animal is seized pursuant to NRS 574A.060 is found to have violated NRS 574A.040, the court may order the forfeiture of the dangerous wild animal by the person.
2. 2. A person from whom a dangerous wild animal is seized pursuant to NRS 574A.060 may voluntarily relinquish the dangerous wild animal. A person who voluntarily relinquishes a dangerous wild animal pursuant to this section remains subject to the imposition of a civil penalty pursuant to NRS 574A.080 for a violation of NRS 574A.040.

3. 3. Except as otherwise provided in subsection 4, a dangerous wild animal that is forfeited pursuant to this section may be returned to the owner of the dangerous wild animal if the investigating law enforcement officer or animal control authority determines that:

   1. (a) Possession of the dangerous wild animal is allowed by law;
   2. (b) The owner has corrected each violation resulting in the forfeiture;
   3. (c) The return of the dangerous wild animal does not create a risk to public health or safety;
   4. (d) The dangerous wild animal has not been treated cruelly; and
   5. (e) The owner is in compliance with the provisions of this chapter.
4. 4. A dangerous wild animal that is forfeited pursuant to this section must not be returned to the owner if the investigating law enforcement officer or animal control authority determines that possession of the dangerous wild animal is prohibited pursuant to this chapter or title 45 of NRS. If possession of the dangerous wild animal is prohibited by law, the dangerous wild animal must be humanely euthanized by an animal control authority in compliance with all applicable federal, state and local laws.

(Added to NRS by 2021, 1734)