Winston who was used as bait to train other dogs gets some affection from Amy Raddar at a press conference concerning animal fighting at the Capitol on Wednesday, May 28, 2008 in Tallahassee, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Cannon)

Animal fighting penalties strengthened

Spectators face more fines, time in jail

Updated: Monday, 12 Jan 2009, 8:52 PM EST
Published : Monday, 12 Jan 2009, 12:08 PM EST

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Governor Deval Patrick has signed a law that strengthens penalties for being involved in animal fighting.

Previously, spectators of dog fights faced a $250 fine and one month in jail.  Now, they will face a $1000 fine and up to five years in prison.

Animal rights advocate Linda Huebner hopes the new law will deter people from betting on or participating in dog fights.

The law will also increase fines for those who videotape an animal fight and post it on the Internet.

Copyright WWLP

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