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Maryland Code, Criminal Law § 10-608

Current as of January 01, 2025 | Updated by Findlaw Staff

(a)(1) In this section, “implement of cockfighting” means any implement or device intended or designed:

(i) to enhance the fighting ability of a fowl, cock, or other bird; or

(ii) for use in a deliberately conducted event that uses a fowl, cock, or other bird to fight with another fowl, cock, or other bird.

(2) “Implement of cockfighting” includes:

(i) a gaff;

(ii) a slasher;

(iii) a postiza;

(iv) a sparring muff; and

(v) any other sharp implement designed to be attached in place of the natural spur of a gamecock or other fighting bird.

(b) A person may not:

(1) use or allow the use of a fowl, cock, or other bird to fight with another animal;

(2) possess, with the intent to unlawfully use, an implement of cockfighting;

(3) arrange or conduct a fight in which a fowl, cock, or other bird fights with another fowl, cock, or other bird;

(4) possess, own, sell, transport, or train a fowl, cock, or other bird with the intent to use the fowl, cock, or other bird in a cockfight; or

(5) knowingly allow premises under the person's ownership, charge, or control to be used to conduct a fight in which a fowl, cock, or other bird fights with another fowl, cock, or other bird.

(c)(1) A person who violates this section is guilty of the felony of aggravated cruelty to animals and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.

(2) As a condition of sentencing, the court may:

(i) order a defendant convicted of violating this section to:

1. participate in and pay for psychological counseling; and

2. pay, in addition to any other fines and costs, all reasonable costs incurred in removing, housing, treating, or euthanizing an animal confiscated from the defendant; and

(ii) prohibit a defendant from owning, possessing, or residing with an animal for a specified period of time.

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Cite this article: FindLaw.com - Maryland Code, Criminal Law § 10-608 - last updated January 01, 2025 | https://codes.findlaw.com/md/criminal-law/md-code-crim-law-sect-10-608/

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