State of Oklahoma v. Sasha Smith

Tulsa, Oklahoma, criminal defense lawyer represented the Defendant charged with animal cruelty.

Sasha Smith, one of the owners of Mercy Sakes 2nd Chance Animal Rescue, is accused of 59 counts of animal abuse and neglect

Under Oklahoma law, animal abuse and neglect are governed primarily by Oklahoma Statutes Title 21, Section 1685 (Cruelty to Animals) and related statutes under the state's Animal Protection Act.

Prohibited Acts

• Active Cruelty: Willfully or maliciously torturing, beating, injuring, maiming, mutilating, destroying, or killing any captive or subjugated animal (whether wild or tame, owned or unowned).

• Neglect (Passive Cruelty): Depriving an animal of necessary food, drink, shelter, or veterinary care needed to prevent suffering.

• Complicity: Causing, procuring, or permitting any such act, or instigating or furthering acts of cruelty.

• Abandonment: Depositing a live dog, cat, or other domestic animal on a public or private roadway or place with the intent to abandon it is classified as a misdemeanor under 21 O.S. § 1691.

Covered Animals

The law applies broadly to mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, and similar creatures—both wild and domesticated.

Penalties

• Felony Classification: Violations of Section 1685 are classified as a Class B5 felony offense.

• Punishment: Punishable by state penitentiary imprisonment for up to 5 years, county jail imprisonment for up to 1 year, or a fine of up to $5,000 (or both fine and imprisonment at the court's discretion).

A criminal charge is not proof of guilt.