Arkansas § 5-54-126 - Killing or injuring animals used by law enforcement or search and rescue dogs.

Full text of Arkansas Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-54-126 — Killing or injuring animals used by law enforcement or search and rescue dogs., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 5-54-126. Killing or injuring animals used by law enforcement or search and rescue dogs.

Any person who: Purposely kills or physically injures; Purposely causes physical contact that is of a nature likely to cause physical injury to; or Attempts to cause physical contact that is of a nature likely to cause physical injury to, A person who purposely interferes with or obstructs an animal owned by or used by a law enforcement agency or a search and rescue dog used by a law enforcement officer in the discharge or attempted discharge of his or her duties upon conviction is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. As used in this section, “search and rescue dog” means a dog: In training for or trained for the purpose of search and rescue; Owned by an independent handler or member of a search and rescue team; Used in conjunction with a local law enforcement organization or an emergency services organization for the purpose of locating a missing person or evidence of arson; Trained for the purpose of locating controlled substances; or Trained to assist in the apprehension of persons alleged to have violated any law. A person guilty of violating this section is also required to make restitution to the law enforcement agency or owner of the animal that suffered a loss due to the violation, including without limitation reimbursement for veterinary bills, and the replacement cost of the animal if the animal is permanently disabled or killed as a result of the violation. any animal owned by or used by a law enforcement agency or any search and rescue dog upon conviction is guilty of a Class D felony.

Source: official Arkansas text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas § 5-54-126

What does Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-54-126 cover?

Section 5-54-126 ("Killing or injuring animals used by law enforcement or search and rescue dogs.") is part of the Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Arkansas. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Arkansas § 5-54-126?

A common citation format is "Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-54-126" (Arkansas). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Arkansas law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arkansas official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arkansas attorney.

How does Arkansas § 5-54-126 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arkansas can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arkansas.