OCALA, FL (352today.com) – January 2025 has been officially declared Marion County Animal Abuser Registry Awareness Month, honoring the crucial work of the Marion County Animal Abuser Registry, also known as “Molly’s Law.”
The announcement was made during the Marion County Board of County Commissioners meeting on December 17, 2024.
Named after Molly, an American boxer mix who survived a horrific attack in 2014, Molly’s Law was launched in 2017 thanks to the tireless efforts of her adopter, Lilly Baron of the SPCA of Ocala, and strong community support. This groundbreaking ordinance created a public registry to prevent convicted animal abusers from owning or working with animals, ensuring offenders are held accountable and protecting animals from harm.
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The registry, part of Marion County Code Chapter 4, Section 4-15, allows citizens, pet sellers, and rescue organizations to verify whether someone is prohibited from possessing animals. Additionally, it includes a list of individuals enjoined from owning animals.
To honor Molly’s legacy, a statue of her will be donated to the new Marion County Animal Shelter, set to open in December 2025.
During the announcement, Lilly Baron sponsored Poppy’s Dogs to provide free “Molly dogs” at the McPherson Complex, spotlighting the importance of the animal abuser registry.
Molly’s Law remains a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight against animal cruelty and Marion County’s commitment to safeguarding its animal residents. For more information about the registry or to verify individuals listed, visit the Marion County website.