Animal cruelty includes a wide range of behaviors that are mistreatment of animals—from neglect (depriving an animal of food, water, shelter, or veterinary care) to torturing, maiming, mutilating, and killing animals. Animal cruelty laws vary from state to state, and are usually included in a state’s statutes.
In Colorado, animal cruelty is addressed under the Colorado Revised Statutes, specifically in Title 18, Criminal Code, Article 9, which covers offenses against public peace, order, and decency. Under Section 18-9-202, cruelty to animals is defined and prohibited. The law makes it a crime to knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence mistreat or neglect an animal. This includes failing to provide proper food, water, shelter, or care, as well as inflicting unnecessary suffering or pain. Depending on the severity and circumstances, offenses can range from a misdemeanor to a felony. Aggravated cruelty, which involves the intentional torture or killing of an animal, is considered a more serious felony offense. Colorado also has laws that require veterinarians to report suspected animal cruelty and provide protections for those who report animal cruelty in good faith.