Proponen 12 años de cárcel por causar la muerte de un animal en CDMX

Proposed Reform to the Mexico City Penal Code
Local lawmaker Janette Guerrero presented an initiative to the Mexico City Congress to reform the city’s Penal Code and strengthen punishments for animal abuse and cruelty, especially in cases where an animal dies.

Bigger Prison Sentence for Causing an Animal’s Death
Right now, the penalty for causing the death of an animal is 2 to 6 years in prison. Guerrero’s proposal would increase it to 4 to 12 years in prison.
The goal, she said, is to prevent offenders from receiving legal benefits that reduce the real impact of the sentence.

“It’s a Necessary Correction,” Guerrero Says
After presenting the initiative, Guerrero argued that the proposal responds to a legal and social need. She said the reform is not an exaggeration or punishment “just for punishment,” but a correction because current penalties can lead to easier outcomes such as agreements or reduced consequences that do not match the seriousness of the harm.

🏛️🐾 La diputada @jguerreromaya (PT) propuso desde el #CongresoCDMX incrementar las sanciones contra el maltrato animal en la #CDMX, así como fortalecer su prevención y protección. pic.twitter.com/efwmOWZOia

— Congreso de la Ciudad de México (@Congreso_CdMex) February 10, 2026

New Penalties Included in the Initiative
The proposal also includes:

• 2 to 6 years in prison and fines of 70,000 to 117,000 pesos for animal mistreatment or cruelty
• 4 to 8 years in prison for anyone who runs or sponsors illegal places used for the sacrifice (killing) of animals

Animals as Sentient Beings
Guerrero highlighted that Mexico City has already made progress by recognizing animals as sentient beings in the local Constitution. She emphasized that animals are not objects or disposable property, because they can feel pain, fear, and suffering.
However, she stressed that recognition alone is not enough if the law does not truly protect them.

What Happens Next
The initiative will be sent to congressional committees for review and possible drafting of a final report before it can be voted on by the full Mexico City Congress.