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 Hawaii, animal cruelty is addressed under Hawaii Revised Statutes, Title 22, Chapter 711, which prohibits a wide range of mistreatment of animals. This includes offenses such as cruelty to animals in the first and second degree, which cover intentional or negligent infliction of harm, injury, or suffering upon an animal. It is illegal to torture, mutilate, or kill an animal, and to deprive an animal of necessary sustenance, care, or shelter. Hawaii law also specifically addresses animal desertion and includes provisions for the humane treatment of animals by their owners. Penalties for animal cruelty in Hawaii can range from misdemeanor charges for less severe offenses to felony charges for more serious offenses, such as cruelty to animals in the first degree. Additionally, Hawaii has laws that protect endangered species and regulate animal ownership, breeding, and care to ensure the welfare of animals.