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Bestiality

Chapter 21 of the Texas Penal Code sets restrictions and guidelines regarding sexually based offenses in the state of Texas.

“Bestiality,” as per § 21.09 of the Texas Penal Code, occurs when a person knowingly:

  • Engages in an act involving contact between:
  • The person’s mouth, anus, or genitals and the anus or genitals of the animal
  • The person’s anus or genitals and the mouth of the animal.
  • Fondles or touches the anus or genitals of an animal in a manner that is not a generally accepted and otherwise lawful animal husbandry or veterinary practice, including touching through clothing
  • Causes an animal to contact the seminal fluid of the person
  • Inserts any part of a person's body or any object into the anus or genitals of an animal in a manner that is not a generally accepted and otherwise lawful animal husbandry or veterinary practice
  • Possesses, sells, transfers, purchases, or otherwise obtains an animal with the intent that the animal be used for conduct previously described
  • Organizes, promotes, conducts, or participates as an observer of conduct previously described
  • Causes a person to engage or aids a person in engaging in conduct previously described
  • Permits conduct previously described
  • Advertises, offers, or accepts the offer of an animal with the intent that the animal be used in this state for conduct previously described

Bestiality is a state jail felony and carries a punishment of confinement in a state jail for a period ranging from 180 days to 2 years, as well as a fine of up to $10,000. If the offense is committed in the presence of a child younger than the age of 18, it becomes a second-degree felony and is punishable by a term of imprisonment ranging from 2-20 years, as well as a fine of up to $10,000.

Punishment Range

State Jail Felony

  • Confinement in a state jail for not more than two years and not less than 180 days
  • In addition to confinement, may receive a fine not to exceed $10,000

Second Degree Felony

  • Imprisonment in the institutional division for not more than 20 years or less than two years
  • In addition to imprisonment, may receive a fine not to exceed $10,000

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