McMaster signs Fargo’s Law, strengthening penalties for harming police animals

WMBF News reports that (WIS) - South Carolina now has stronger penalties in place for those who injure or kill police animals.

Henry McMaster held a ceremonial bill signing Tuesday for the new law that enhances penalties for harming police animals in South Carolina.

H.3034 - also known as Fargo’s, Hyco’s, Rico’s, Coba’s, Wick’s, Mikka’s, and Bumi’s Law - was passed and ratified by state lawmakers in May.

The bill is named after seven police K-9’s lost in recent years across South Carolina.

The law makes killing or severely injuring a police animal, such as a K-9 or horse, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

It also states that anyone convicted of that crime must pay back the full cost of the animal - including buying a new one, training and any veterinarian bills.