South Dakota § 22-11-36 - Killing, injury, or interference with a law enforcement support animal prohibited--Felony or misdemeanor.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-11-36 — Killing, injury, or interference with a law enforcement support animal prohibited--Felony or misdemeanor., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 22-11-36. Killing, injury, or interference with a law enforcement support animal prohibited--Felony or misdemeanor.
If any person intentionally and unjustifiably kills a law enforcement animal, the person is guilty of a Class 6 felony. If any person intentionally and unjustifiably causes physical injury to, torments, strikes, disables, or tampers with a law enforcement support animal, the person is guilty of Class 1 misdemeanor. If any person harasses, taunts, or provokes a law enforcement support animal; interferes with a law enforcement support animal while the animal is working; or interferes with the individual handling the animal, the person is guilty of Class 2 misdemeanor. For purposes of this section, the term, law enforcement support animal, means any animal that is on duty which is being used by or on behalf of a law enforcement officer in the performance of the officer's functions and duties.
This section does not apply to a law enforcement officer or a veterinarian who terminates the life of a law enforcement support animal to relieve the animal of undue suffering and pain.
Source: SL 2010, ch 113, § 1.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 22-11-36
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-11-36 cover?
Section 22-11-36 ("Killing, injury, or interference with a law enforcement support animal prohibited--Felony or misdemeanor.") is part of the South Dakota Codified Laws, the codified statutory law of South Dakota. 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 South Dakota § 22-11-36?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-11-36" (South Dakota). 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 South Dakota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Dakota attorney.
How does South Dakota § 22-11-36 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Dakota 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 South Dakota.