What type of offense is committed if an individual interferes with a police animal during its duties?

When an individual interferes with a police animal during its duties, the correct categorization of this offense as a 2nd Degree Misdemeanor reflects the legal principle that while such actions are serious and can pose a threat to law enforcement operations, they are generally not considered to be as severe as more violent felonies.

Police animals serve crucial roles in law enforcement, and any interference with their duties can jeopardize public safety and the effectiveness of police operations. Classifying this offense as a misdemeanor means it carries a punishment less severe than a felony, which aligns with the understanding that the act, while unlawful and disruptive, does not typically involve severe bodily harm or significant criminal conduct.

By establishing a 2nd Degree Misdemeanor for this offense, the legal system emphasizes the importance of protecting working police animals while also reserving harsher penalties for more violent crimes.