ABSTRACT
Animals in the criminal justice system may be treated as victims, objects, victimizers, weapons, family members, property, officers, war heroes, rescuers, supporters, and service animals. Systemic responses and polices for working animals, domesticated animals, animal companions, exotic animals, and wild animals may vary widely between jurisdictions. Inclusion of working animals in the criminal justice system may help to influence public opinion about animals' capacities, intrinsic value, and utility. Animals' therapeutic affects cannot be underestimated. In the criminal justice system, defendants, victims, judges, attorneys, offenders, and others benefit from animals' presence. Animal populations in prisons are typically regulated. Unregulated populations may include infestations or contraband. Utilization of massive amounts of animals may result in cruelty. Some animal welfarists believe that human-animal relationships should never involve slaughter or harm to animals. Treaties and international policies demonstrate worldwide awareness and willingness to participate in improved human-animal relationships.
