Virginia § 3.2-6573.1 - Local animal cruelty registries
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 3.2-6573.1 — Local animal cruelty registries, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3.2-6573.1. Local animal cruelty registries
A. Any locality may establish, organize, and maintain a computerized animal cruelty registry as a database of information regarding persons convicted of a felony violation of (i) cruelty to animals as provided by § 3.2-6570; (ii) animal fighting as provided by § 3.2-6571; (iii) maiming, killing, or poisoning an animal as provided by § 18.2-144; or (iv) killing or injuring a police animal as provided by § 18.2-144.1. Information on such registry may include the name and address of the offender at the time of conviction as well as the offense for which the offender was convicted and the date and place of conviction. Access to such registry may be made available to the public on the website of the locality or local police department.
B. On a form promulgated by a locality or local police department, a person may request removal of his name and information from a registry established in subsection A not less than 15 years after the violation that warranted inclusion in the registry, provided he has no additional felony convictions of an offense listed in subsection A.
C. A locality that has established a registry pursuant to subsection A may adopt ordinances and develop forms to implement the provisions of this section, including the operation and maintenance of a registry and the removal of records on persons who are deceased, whose convictions have been reversed or who have been pardoned, or who have requested removal pursuant to subsection B.
D. All costs to establish, organize, and maintain a locality's animal cruelty registry pursuant to this section shall be borne by such locality.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 3.2-6573.1
What does Code of Virginia § 3.2-6573.1 cover?
Section 3.2-6573.1 ("Local animal cruelty registries") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. 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 Virginia § 3.2-6573.1?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 3.2-6573.1" (Virginia). 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 Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 3.2-6573.1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia 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 Virginia.