Animal Cruelty Could Now Mean 7 Years in Prison

Quintana Roo, Mexico — In response to an increase in animal cruelty cases and growing concern over its connection to societal violence, lawmakers of the XVIII Legislature of the State Congress are analyzing an initiative that proposes increasing prison sentences to up to seven years for those who assault or harm domestic animals.

The initiative's proponent, Deputy Alberto Batún Chulim, warned that various studies have demonstrated the link between animal abuse and the development of aggressive behavior towards other people. He stated that toughening the sanctions seeks not only to protect animals but also to prevent violence within society.

The proposal seeks to reform Article 39 of the Animal Protection and Welfare Law and Article 179 bis of the State Penal Code to expand the catalog of acts considered cruel. This expansion would include retaining, hiding, or removing a pet from its usual environment or illegitimately depriving it of its freedom.

Currently, the punishment for animal cruelty ranges from one to five years in prison. With the proposed reforms, the maximum penalty could increase to seven years.

Batún Chulim emphasized that, beyond the physical harm to animals, abuse generates emotional and psychological consequences for families and communities, as pets positively influence the mental and emotional health of people.

"The care of animals fosters values such as empathy, responsibility, and respect. Protecting them also strengthens the social fabric," expressed the legislator.

The initiative was referred to committees for study and eventual resolution. It is expected to be discussed in the current ordinary session period, with the objective of advancing towards a legal framework that reinforces the culture of animal welfare in Quintana Roo.