|
Great news today, SB 221 (Ochoa-Bogh) passed the full Senate by an initial vote of 33-0. The bill will expand the current stalking crime to include threats to pets, service animals, and horses. Pets are family members, but when stalkers threaten these beloved companions, the law currently offers no recourse.
If any of us were in the position of being harassed and threatened with violence to our beloved pets, we would be emotionally terrorized. This bill reflects that reality by making such actions criminal, and gives law enforcement the ability to stop this behavior before it turns into physical violence.
"We are deeply grateful to Senator Ochoa-Bogh for her unwavering dedication and for making SB 221 a top priority. In a time when violence is far too prevalent in our society, it is crucial that we take strong, proactive steps to prevent such crimes. We must ensure accountability for those who terrorize their stalking victims by threatening their pets," said Judie Mancuso, Founder and President of Social Compassion in Legislation, sponsor of SB 221.
“SB 221 holds stalkers accountable and closes a loophole in California law that has allowed abusers to manipulate and terrorize victims by threatening their pets. We thank Senator Ochoa-Bogh for her strong commitment to public safety and protecting vulnerable victims,” said Riverside County District Attorney Mike Hestrin.
Click on the picture above to watch Senator Ochoa-Bogh present SB 221 on the Senate floor this afternoon.
| 
