The Animal Advocacy Alliance of Utah was initially established to see that a strong, enforceable animal cruelty statute was enacted in Utah. After nearly 13 years of trying, the Utah Code 76-9-301 was amended to included first offense felony provisions for those who intentionally abuse or torture dogs or cats. This is a major step forward for companion animals. Nothing was lost and much was gained.  Although it was difficult to come to a consensus as to how a companion animal was to be defined under the statute, the abuse of some animals will still fall under the previous code at the Class A Misdemeanor level with a maximum penalty of up to one year in jail and up to a $2500 fine.

Two thirds of Utah households have either a dog or a cat and most consider them family members. This felony level protection will now recognize those animals that are most vulnerable and most often abused.

Due to the rural nature of the state of Utah, it is imperative that we educate local community activists about how to spot a cruelty situation and give them the resources to see that perpetrators are prosecuted and that the animals are protected. Our education outreach will now be a key issue and your contributions toward the funding of materials and outreach would be greatly appreciated.

Our focus is to protect animals from neglect, abuse, cruelty, and exploitation. Through your generous support and contributions we will remain on the frontline of advocacy and action for animals in Utah.

Henry's Story

On April 26, 2006, Marc Christopher Vincent chased Henry with a leaf blower damaging his left eye irreparably. The eye became infected and it had to be removed. On May 25 2006, Vincent put Henry in a 200-degree oven for five minutes severely burning the dog’s paws and chest. The torture that Henry endured left him badly scarred and his front toes were fused together.  Marc Vincent was charged with intentional animal cruelty, which at the time was a Class A Misdemeanor.

Marc Vincent was sentenced to 6 months in jail and a $1,000.00 fine.  He was released after serving just 4 ½ months due to ‘good behavior’.