This petition is to get animal fighting in Colorado as part of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act (RICO)

Currently, section 18-9-204 CRS of the Colorado Revised Statutes makes it a Class 5 felony to hold, sponsor or encourage a fight between or among animals for the purpose of monetary gain or entertainment. A conviction is punishable by 1 to 3 years in prison and fines of up to $100,000.00.

"Applied to animal fighting, RICO … would give prosecutors increased muscle in seeking justice for animals abused … and executed by their owners,” as the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) reports. Racketeering is a class 2 felony, with penalties including up to 24 years in prison and up to $1 million in fines. The convicted person(s) could also be responsible for paying restitution for the trama caused to these animals. 

This would make the risk much greater for people who host and participate in dog fights, cock fights and hog vs. dog fights and could help stop this inhumane act. It would also help bring the animals involved in these rings to justice and new lives.

These animals need our help. Please help by signing this petition so we can strengthen the animal fighting law in Colorado.