OCALA, FL (352today.com) — January 2025 is officially recognized as Animal Abuser Registry Awareness Month in Marion County.

This initiative highlights the county’s commitment to animal welfare through the Animal Abuse Registry Ordinance, aimed at preventing known abusers from harming animals again.

What Is the Animal Abuser Registry?

Also known as “Molly’s Law,” the Animal Abuser Registry was established in 2016 and is maintained by Marion County Animal Services.

Marion County Commissioners proclaim January 2025 as Animal Abuser Registry Awareness Month, recognizing the ongoing impact of "Molly’s Law" in protecting animals from cruelty.
Marion County Commissioners proclaim January 2025 as Animal Abuser Registry Awareness Month, recognizing the ongoing impact of “Molly’s Law” in protecting animals from cruelty. Courtesy: Marion County, FL
Molly's Law was a result involving Molly, an American boxer mix who was "brutally" stabbed and beaten with a wooden bat by Steven Scott Fleming in 2014.
Molly’s Law was a result involving Molly, an American boxer mix who was “brutally” stabbed and beaten with a wooden bat by Steven Scott Fleming in 2014. Courtesy: SPCA of Ocala
Lilly Baron of the SPCA of Ocala honors Molly's legacy during the Marion County Animal Abuser Registry Awareness Month announcement.
Lilly Baron of the SPCA of Ocala honors Molly’s legacy during the Marion County Animal Abuser Registry Awareness Month announcement. Courtesy: Marion County, FL

This publicly accessible database lists individuals convicted of criminal animal abuse within Marion County, helping shelters, rescues, pet sellers, and the community avoid enabling known offenders.

Key Facts
  • Individuals criminally convicted of animal abuse in Marion County are required to be placed on the registry.
  • Only those adjudicated as guilty are added to the registry.
  • Prosecuting agencies notify the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and Animal Services upon conviction.
  • Misdemeanor convictions result in a 3-year listing; felony convictions result in a 5-year listing; repeat offenses result in a 10-year listing.
  • Offenses include neglect, torture, abandonment, and unlawful confinement of animals.
  • The registry differs from the Civil Enjoinment List, with separate requirements for placement.
Why It Matters
  • Protect Animals: Prevents abusers from adopting or purchasing animals.
  • Community Awareness: Keeps the public informed about offenders.
  • Legal Accountability: Reinforces consequences for animal cruelty.
Ongoing Efforts for Statewide Expansion

Lilly Baron, President of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) of Ocala, has been advocating for a statewide Animal Abuser Registry for eight years.

FROM THE ARCHIVES: Animal advocates in Marion County continue effort to expand the abuser registry across the state

Despite opposition, Baron continues pushing for a uniform system across Florida’s 67 counties to simplify access for law enforcement, shelters, rescues, and the public. “It makes more sense to have a statewide database similar to the sex offender registry run by FDLE,” Baron stated. “ASPCA can come after me all they want, and I’m not stopping!”

Differing Opinions

The ASPCA, or American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, has expressed concerns about animal abuse registries, citing high costs, limited effectiveness, and the potential for vigilantism. They advocate for strengthening existing laws, no-contact orders, and including animals in domestic violence protections as more effective alternatives.

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