Montana § 45-8-209 - Harming A Police Dog -- Penalty -- Definition
Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 45-8-209 — Harming A Police Dog -- Penalty -- Definition, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 45-8-209. Harming A Police Dog -- Penalty -- Definition
Harming a police dog -- penalty -- definition. (1) A person commits the offense of harming a police dog if the person purposely or knowingly shoots, kills, or otherwise injures a police dog being used by a: (a) law enforcement officer in discharging or attempting to discharge a legal duty in a reasonable and proper manner; or (b) person while the person is under the control of and acting under the direction of an officer of an official law enforcement agency during the performance of the agency's law enforcement or search and rescue duties. (2) A person convicted of the offense of harming a police dog may be fined an amount not to exceed $5,000 or be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 1 year, or both. (3) As used in this section, the following definitions apply: (a) "Law enforcement officer" means a person who is a peace officer, as defined in 46-1-202 , or any other agent of a criminal justice agency. (b) "Police dog" means a dog that is: (i) used by a law enforcement agency, as defined in 44-11-303 , in the exercise of its authority; (ii) specifically trained for law enforcement or search and rescue work; and (iii) under the control of a law enforcement officer.
Source: official Montana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 45-8-209
What does Montana Code Annotated § 45-8-209 cover?
Section 45-8-209 ("Harming A Police Dog -- Penalty -- Definition") is part of the Montana Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of Montana. 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 Montana § 45-8-209?
A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 45-8-209" (Montana). 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 Montana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Montana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Montana attorney.
How does Montana § 45-8-209 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Montana 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 Montana.