WATCH: Gov. McMaster signs bill protecting SC police animals

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) – A ceremonial bill signing was held We Wednesday for a 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 acros South Carolina.

Gov. Henry McMaster later signed the bill into law, with it going into effect on May 15.

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. The law also makes it a crime to fire at a police vehicle if an animal is inside.

Police are also required by law to keep detailed records when a K-9 bites or causes injury.

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