Illinois § 4.04
Full text of Illinois Illinois Compiled Statutes § 4.04, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4.04.
Injuring or killing police animals, service animals, accelerant detection dogs, or search and rescue dogs prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person to willfully or maliciously torture, mutilate, injure, disable, poison, or kill (i) any animal used by a law enforcement department or agency in the performance of the functions or duties of the department or agency or when placed in confinement off duty, (ii) any service animal, (iii) any search and rescue dog, (iv) any law enforcement, service, or search and rescue animal in training, or (v) any accelerant detection canine used by a fire officer for arson investigations in the performance of his or her functions or while off duty. However, a police officer or veterinarian may perform euthanasia in emergency situations when delay would cause the animal undue suffering and pain. A person convicted of violating this Section is guilty of a Class 4 felony if the animal is not killed or totally disabled; if the animal is killed or totally disabled, the person is guilty of a Class 3 felony. (Source: P.A. 95-331, eff. 8-21-07; 95-560, eff. 8-30-07; 96-1171, eff. 7-22-10.)
Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois § 4.04
What does Illinois Compiled Statutes § 4.04 cover?
Section 4.04 is part of the Illinois Compiled Statutes, the codified statutory law of Illinois. 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 Illinois § 4.04?
A common citation format is "Illinois Compiled Statutes § 4.04" (Illinois). 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 Illinois law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Illinois official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Illinois attorney.
How does Illinois § 4.04 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Illinois 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 Illinois.