Arizona criminalizes animal cruelty statewide under A.R.S. Section 13-2910, which covers neglect and inadequate care typical in hoarding cases, and applies uniformly in every jurisdiction.
A.R.S. Section 13-2910 makes it unlawful to fail to provide medical attention, food, water, or shelter necessary for an animal's health. Hoarding cases typically result in multiple counts of cruelty or neglect, with each animal a separate count. Aggravated cruelty involving intentional or knowing harm is a class 6 felony. Local jurisdictions may add their own animal welfare codes, but the state cruelty statute applies universally and provides the floor for enforcement.
Basic cruelty is a class 1 misdemeanor; intentional or knowing cruelty is a class 6 felony, punishable by jail, fines, and forfeiture of animals.
See how Lake Havasu City's animal hoarding rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.