Overview

The Pet Abduction Bill makes stealing dogs and cats a specific criminal offence in England and Northern Ireland. It also gives the relevant authorities the power to extend this to other commonly kept pets if deemed necessary.

Description

This bill establishes the offences of dog and cat abduction. Taking a dog or cat without the owner's permission becomes a crime, punishable by up to 5 years in prison or a fine (or both) on indictment. Summary conviction penalties are less severe. Exceptions exist if the person and animal previously lived together in the same household and the taking occurred after the separation. Defences include lawful authority or a reasonable excuse. For detained dogs, further defences relate to stray dog procedures in England and Northern Ireland. The bill empowers the relevant authorities (the Secretary of State in England and DAERA in Northern Ireland) to add other pet species to the legislation via regulations, following consultation and parliamentary approval. These regulations could add or remove exceptions and defences, but cannot change the penalties.

Government Spending

The bill's financial implications are not explicitly stated in the provided text. There may be associated costs for increased law enforcement, prosecution, and potential adjustments to existing systems for handling stray animals, although this information is not included.

Groups Affected

• Pet Owners: Will have increased legal protection against pet theft.
• People who take pets without permission: Face criminal prosecution and penalties.
• Law Enforcement Agencies: Will have additional responsibilities in investigating and prosecuting pet abduction cases.
• Local Authorities (England) and DAERA (Northern Ireland): May face increased workload in relation to handling cases or amending regulations.
• Other Pet Species (potentially): Could become subject to the act in the future, depending on government decisions.

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