Overview

The Pets (Theft) Bill aims to specifically criminalize the theft of pets in England, Wales, and Scotland, increasing penalties for pet theft and introducing it as an aggravating factor in sentencing. The bill amends existing animal welfare legislation in both England and Wales, and Scotland to achieve this.

Description

This Bill amends the Animal Welfare Act 2006 (England and Wales) and the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 to create a specific offence of pet theft. A "pet" is defined as a protected animal providing companionship or assistance to a human. The Bill introduces new sections defining "pet theft" as the dishonest appropriation of a pet with the intent to permanently deprive the owner.

Penalties: For pet theft, the maximum penalty on summary conviction will be 51 weeks' imprisonment or a fine, or both. On conviction on indictment, the maximum penalty is 2 years' imprisonment or a fine, or both.

Aggravating Factors: The Bill sets out aggravating factors to be considered during sentencing, including whether the theft caused distress to the pet or owner and whether it was for commercial gain. The bill also amends existing legislation to allow for disqualification orders for those convicted of pet theft.

The bill also makes consequential amendments to the Police and Criminal Evidence Act to reflect the new offence.

Government Spending

The Bill is not expected to result in significant changes to government spending. The primary costs will be associated with the enforcement of the new law and any associated court proceedings. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

The Bill directly affects:

• Pet Owners: Provides increased legal protection against pet theft.
• Law Enforcement: Provides a clearer legal framework for prosecuting pet theft cases.
• The Courts: Introduces new sentencing guidelines for pet theft offences.
• Pet Thieves: Faces increased penalties for the crime of pet theft.

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