§ 76-6-413 — Release of a fur-bearing animal -- Finding.

(1) Terms defined in Section 76-1-101.5 apply to this section.
(2) An actor commits release of a fur-bearing animal if the actor intentionally and without permission of the owner releases a fur-bearing animal raised for commercial purposes.
(3) (3)(a) Except as provided in Subsection (3)(b), a violation of Subsection (2) is a third degree felony.
(3)(b) A violation of Subsection (2) is a second degree felony if the value of the property is or exceeds $5,000.
(4) The Legislature finds that the release of a fur-bearing animal raised for commercial purposes subjects the animal to unnecessary suffering through deprivation of food and shelter and compromises the animal's genetic integrity, thereby permanently depriving the owner of substantial value.
(5) An actor who violates Subsection (2) is civilly liable for three times the amount of actual damages, if any sustained by the plaintiff, and for costs of suit and reasonable attorney fees.

Legislative History

Amended by Chapter 111, 2023 General Session