578.029. Knowingly releasing an animal, crime of--penalty. - Missouri Statutes

Knowingly releasing an animal, crime of--penalty.

578.029. 1. A person commits the crime of knowingly releasing ananimal if that person, acting without the consent of the owner or custodianof an animal, intentionally releases any animal that is lawfully confinedfor the purpose of companionship or protection of persons or property orfor recreation, exhibition or educational purposes.

2. As used in this section "animal" means every living creature,domesticated or wild, but not including Homo sapiens.

3. The provisions of this section shall not apply to a public servantacting in the course of such servant's official duties.

4. Intentionally releasing an animal is a class B misdemeanor exceptthat the second or any subsequent offense is a class D felony.

(L. 2001 S.B. 462)