Dogfighting Laws

Dogfighting Laws

Federal, state and local laws against animal fighting have toughened over 30 years, a result of society's heightened sensitivity to animal cruelty:

Federal Law

In 1976, Congress outlawed interstate promotion of animal fights and the transportation of animals across state lines for fighting, with penalties of up to a year in prison and a $5,000 fine. The fine was later increased to $100,000.

In May, the punishment rose to three years and a $250,000 fine. Vick is charged under the older law because the accusations cover a period ending in April.

He also is accused of violating a federal law against interstate travel in aid of certain criminal activities. That law, with penalties of up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, does not list dogfighting but does include gambling.

Vick has agreed to plead guilty, his attorneys said. Sources said federal guidelines in his case call for a prison term in the 12-to-18-month range.

State Laws

Dogfighting is a felony in 48 states and the District and a misdemeanor in Idaho and Wyoming. Possessing a fighting dog is legal in Georgia, Idaho and Nevada, a misdemeanor in New York, Texas, West Virginia and Wyoming, and a felony everywhere else.

Being a spectator at a dogfight is legal in Georgia and Idaho, a felony in 22 states and a misdemeanor in 26 states and the District.

Washington Area Laws

Participating in a dogfight:

Maryland: Felony, up to three years, $5,000 fine.