West Virginia Animal Cruelty Law Covers Hoarding Conduct

WV Code §61-8-19 prohibits cruelty to animals, including knowingly or intentionally withholding necessary sustenance, drink, shelter, or medical attention required to prevent suffering. When a person keeps so many animals that adequate care is impossible, prosecutors charge cruelty or neglect, often as multiple counts. Aggravated cruelty involving torture or causing serious harm is a felony. Humane officers may seize animals when conditions threaten welfare, and courts may bar convicted defendants from owning animals. The statute applies uniformly throughout West Virginia, though municipalities may add complementary ordinances.

Misdemeanor cruelty is punishable by up to six months in jail and fines up to $2,000 per animal. Aggravated cruelty is a felony with up to five years imprisonment.