It already is a grievous crime in each state. It was (is?) not a federal crime. Not sure it can be (enumerated powers and such), though they regulate many things they shouldn’t. Adding a federal charge is kind of like double secret probation, (Animal House) In NY attempted murder is a felony, attempted murder with a weapon is an additional felony, if your intended victim was an FBI agent there is an additional Federal felony crime committed. At that point what’s the difference, you are looking at three felony charges usually sentenced concurrently. The charges and laws are piled on so legislators and prosecutors can say they are “doing something” or “accomplishing what my opponents couldn’t” or “tough on crime” etc.
If it happens on federal lands, such as a national park, it's under federal jurisdiction, right? Ergo it would seem this would be applied to situations like that.
Specifically it would up the fines for illegal hunting... but it would also double up on the felony charges of killing a federal k-9 dog.
It could also be used to add on felony charges for illegal marijuana grows that contaminate the water or set out preventive traps on federal lands, something CA sorely needs.
What? Poaching and Law enforcement animals fall under entirely different areas than animal cruelty. Polluting a waterway and trapping without license are also separate. I thought the potheads were all peace and love and victimless criminals?
On the last part, you'd be wrong. You don't think poisoning wildlife would fall under animal cruelty though? I mean... c'mon.
Again, most of these would be additional charges.
It could also be used to add on felony charges for illegal marijuana grows that contaminate the water or set out preventive traps on federal lands, something CA sorely needs.
Again, most of these would be additional charges.