London, KY asked in Animal / Dog Law and Criminal Law for Missouri

Q: Theft of Animal

What would be the legal recourse for someone possibly being charged with theft of animal when the intention was not to keep but the animals to the shelter for the dogs to have food, water and shelter, if the shelter was informed.

1 Lawyer Answer
Kristen Thurmond
Kristen Thurmond
Answered
  • Licensed in Missouri

A: This may be very specific to Kentucky laws. Most states treat animals as property, including companion animals, and so if you do not have the authority to take the dog (such as an officer with probably cause) then you could be charged with theft. Again, speak with a Kentucky criminal defense attorney for specifics.

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.