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Assembly OKs Stiffer Fines, Jail Time For Cockfighting

SACRAMENTO (CBS) — If you enjoy a good cockfight, it could cost you.

KNX 1070's Brian Ping reports state lawmakers have approved legislation that would double fines for the illegal animal fights.

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The Assembly on Monday unanimously approved a Senate Bill 1145 by a 78-0 vote that would raise the penalty for anyone convicted of cockfighting from a maximum of $5,000 to $10,000.

The bill introduced by Hemet Republican Sen. Bill Emmerson would also call for spectators to face up to six months in jail and a fine increase from $1,000 to $5,000.

Some animal rights advocates had asked lawmakers to change the state's first-time misdemeanor policy to a felony, but lawmakers ultimately decided against that proposal to avoid adding to the already-overcrowded prison population.

The bill, which now goes to Governor Jerry Brown, also increases fines on fights involving other species, such as dogs and bears.

(TM and © Copyright 2012 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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