Spokane addresses animal hoarding through SMC Chapter 6 cruelty and care provisions plus Washington State cruelty statutes, with SCRAPS officers authorized to investigate, seize animals, and refer cases for criminal charges.
Spokane Municipal Code Chapter 6 incorporates state cruelty statutes RCW 16.52, which criminalize starvation, lack of veterinary care, unsanitary confinement, and overcrowding consistent with hoarding. SCRAPS officers investigate complaints, can obtain warrants, and seize animals when conditions endanger health or safety. Misdemeanor first-degree animal cruelty can be charged when neglect causes substantial pain or death. Hoarding cases often combine SCRAPS, Spokane Police, Spokane Regional Health District, and Adult Protective Services because conditions typically violate housing and sanitation codes simultaneously.
Convictions range from civil infractions to gross misdemeanors and felony first-degree animal cruelty under RCW 16.52.205, with fines, jail time, and permanent ownership bans possible.
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