By Trend News Line 2024-04-18 04:01:40.
**Colorado Governor Signs Law to Increase Penalties for Harming Law Enforcement Animals**
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In a significant move to protect law enforcement animals, Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed a new law on Wednesday that increases penalties for those who harm or kill these vital members of the force.
**Key Changes in the Law**
The law, known as House Bill 24-1074 titled Aggravated Cruelty to Law Enforcement Animals, specifically targets individuals who harm or kill law enforcement animals to the extent that they are unable to perform their duties for at least three months. This legislation aims to enhance the protection of these animals and ensure that those responsible for their harm face appropriate consequences.
**Background and Context**
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The passing of this law comes in the wake of the tragic killing of K9 Jinx, an animal deputy with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. The incident, which occurred in April 2022 during an officer-involved shooting in Manitou Springs, sparked outrage and a call for greater legal protection for law enforcement animals.
**Support for the Law**
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has been a vocal advocate for the new legislation, with Sheriff Joseph Roybal expressing his support for the bill. Sheriff Roybal, accompanied by Deputy Ronnie Hancock, the handler of K9 Jinx, was present in Denver as Governor Polis signed the law into effect.
**Impact of the Law**
The passage of House Bill 24-1074 marks a significant step towards recognising the invaluable service that K9 partners provide to law enforcement. The legislation not only honours the memory of K9 Jinx but also serves as a deterrent to those who may seek to harm law enforcement animals in the future.
**Remembering K9 Jinx**
K9 Jinx was a dedicated member of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on April 11, 2022. The sheriff’s office, along with the Manitou Springs police Department, were responding to a dangerous situation involving an armed individual when the incident occurred.
**Community Support**
In the aftermath of K9 Jinx’s death, Deputy Ronnie Hancock and his family initiated a petition calling for increased legal protections for law enforcement animals. The outpouring of support from the community further underscored the importance of recognising the service and sacrifice of these loyal companions.
**Continuing the Fight**
Deputy Hancock, supported by his wife Julie, has been a steadfast advocate for justice and dignity for K9 partners. The passage of House Bill 24-1074 is a testament to their unwavering commitment to honouring the memory of K9 Jinx and advocating for stronger legal protections for law enforcement animals.
**In Conclusion**
The signing of the new law by Governor Polis represents a significant victory for the law enforcement community and all those who value the service and sacrifice of K9 partners. The enhanced penalties for harming law enforcement animals send a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable..
penalties for harming law enforcement animals
increases for harming law enforcement animals.
