(a) As used in this section, 'search and rescue dog' means a dog that receives special training to locate or attempt to locate by air scent or ground or water tracking a person who is an offender or is lost, trapped, injured, or incapacitated.(b) A person who knowingly or intentionally:(1) interferes with the actions of a search and rescue dog while the dog is performing or is attempting to perform a search and rescue task; or(2) strikes, torments, injures, or otherwise mistreats a search and rescue dog;commits a Class A misdemeanor.(c) An offense under subsection (b)(2) is a Level 6 felony if the act results in:(1) serious permanent disfigurement;(2) unconsciousness;(3) permanent or protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member or organ; or(4) death;of the search and rescue dog.(d) It is a defense that the accused person:(1) engaged in a reasonable act of training, handling, or disciplining the search and rescue dog; or(2) reasonably believed the conduct was necessary to prevent injury to the accused person or another person.(e) In addition to any sentence or fine imposed for a conviction of an offense under this section, the court may order the duct was necessary to prevent injury to the accused person or another person.(e) In addition to any sentence or fine imposed for a conviction of an offense under this section, the court may order the person to make restitution to the person who owns the search and rescue dog for reimbursement of:(1) veterinary bills; and(2) replacement costs of the dog if the dog is disabled or killed.As added by P.L.9-2003, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.158-2013, SEC.564.
Indiana Legal Code