Animal care violations

(1) "Animal care facility" means the same as that term is defined in Section 76-13-215. (2) The department may, in accordance with this section and as resources allow, respond to a complaint that an animal care facility has violated Subsection 76-13-202(2)(a) or Section 76-13-215. (3) If the department determines that a person has violated Subsection 76-13-202(2)(a) or Section 76-13-215, the department may: (a) impose a civil fine of up to $500 per violation; (b) seek a temporary restraining order; (c) seek an injunction; (d) seek an order of seizure or condemnation for an animal that is the subject of the violation, if the department has identified a suitable animal care facility that accepts custody of the animal; or (e) report the circumstances to law enforcement or a prosecutor. (4) An action by the department under Subsection (3) may precede and does not preclude a criminal penalty or criminal prosecution under Section 76-13-202, 76-13-203, 76-13-204, or 76-13-215. (5) The department shall deposit a fine imposed under Subsection (3) into the General Fund as a dedicated credit to be used by the department for enforcement of this section.