MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A bill to make bestiality a felony – prompted by Sterling Rachwal’s assaults of horses – is on its way to Gov. Evers’ desk.
Having sex with an animal is a misdemeanor under current law. The bill would create a new crime punishable by up to 12.5 years in prison. Sentences would vary depending on the circumstances, such as whether the animal dies, whether a child is present, or coerced into sex with an animal. Convicts would have to register as sex offenders.
The Senate approved the measure last November.
The Assembly passed the measure on a voice vote Tuesday evening.
State Sen. Andre Jacque introduced the bill after Rachwal’s misdemeanor conviction for molesting a horse.
