VIDEO RELEASE: Senator Moody Introduces LEO K9 Protection Act to Protect Animals in Law Enforcement

WASHINGTON, D.C.-Senator Ashley Moody recently introduced the LEO K9 Protection Act, a bill to hold accountable those who harm law enforcement animals. This legislation strengthens penalties for intentionally harming law enforcement animals and expands federal protections to cover state and local police animals assisting federal law enforcement.

"These highly trained animals help law enforcement apprehend dangerous criminals, detect narcotics and explosives, assist with searches, find missing persons, and save lives. Anyone who intentionally harms police animals in the line of duty should face serious consequences. Law enforcement animals that serve with brave men and women protect our communities, and they in return deserve to be protected," said Senator Ashley Moody.

BACKGROUND:

• Senator Moody introduced the LEO K9 Protection Act, legislation aimed at strengthening penalties for individuals who use a deadly weapon to harm a federal police dog or horse in the line of duty.
• The bill expands federal protections to include state, county, and local law enforcement animals assisting a federal agency.
• This legislation provides a good-faith exception for individuals providing emergency veterinary care to injured law enforcement animals.
• The bill directs the U.S. Department of Transportation to issue regulations allowing emergency medical service providers to transport injured police animals at their discretion.
• This legislation was named in honor of K9 Leo, a fallen Marion County, Florida, canine deputy.
• This bill was originally introduced in the House by Congressman Aaron Bean (R-FL-4).

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