New Jersey S2501 classifies certain animal abuse offenses as a second-degree crime if committed with extreme indifference to the animal's life, known.

New Jersey S2501 amends existing law to establish that certain animal abuse offenses committed in a manner manifesting extreme indifference to the value of the animal’s life are classified as a crime of the second degree. This includes offenses such as torment, torture, maiming, poisoning, or unnecessary beating of a domestic companion animal. The bill is named "River's Law" in recognition of River, an animal that suffered such abuse. A conviction under this law carries a penalty of five to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $150,000, or both.

New Jersey S2501 classifies certain animal abuse offenses as a second-degree crime if committed with extreme indifference to the animal's life, known.

New Jersey S2501 amends existing law to establish that certain animal abuse offenses committed in a manner manifesting extreme indifference to the value of the animal’s life are classified as a crime of the second degree. This includes offenses such as torment, torture, maiming, poisoning, or unnecessary beating of a domestic companion animal. The bill is named "River's Law" in recognition of River, an animal that suffered such abuse. A conviction under this law carries a penalty of five to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $150,000, or both.