1. (a) Offense defined.— A person commits an offense if the person intentionally or knowingly does any of the following:

   1. (1) Tortures an animal.
   2. (2) Violates section 5532 (relating to neglect of animal) or 5533 (relating to cruelty to animal) causing serious bodily injury to the animal or the death of the animal.
2. (b) Grading.— A violation of this section is a felony of the third degree.

Cross References. Section 5534 is referred to in section 5560 of this title; section 5329 of Title 23 (Domestic Relations).