Rio de Janeiro may create a veterinary forensic institute to investigate animal abuse.

The state of Rio de Janeiro may gain a new structure focused on investigating crimes against animals. The text that provides for the creation of the Legal Veterinary Medical Institute was approved in its first discussion at the Legislative Assembly (Alerj) this Tuesday (05), with the proposal to expand technical support for investigations of cases of mistreatment, abandonment and other offenses.

The initiative, which will still have to go through another vote in plenary session, arises amid increasing demands related to animal protection and the need to improve the production of evidence in such cases.

Technical support for investigations

According to the text, the institute's main responsibility will be to offer specialized technical support, including conducting forensic examinations, analyzing injuries, and identifying evidence. The proposal also foresees the possibility of partnerships with the Civil Police, universities, and municipalities, expanding integrated action in the handling and investigation of cases.

The author of the proposal, Representative Rodrigo Amorim, stated that the creation of the agency takes into account the current situation in the country. According to him, "Brazil occupies a prominent position in the number of pets, but still faces difficulties in providing adequate care, which contributes to situations of abandonment and violence."

Integration and structure

The text establishes that the institute may work in conjunction with different public bodies and academic institutions, seeking to combine technical knowledge and structure to make investigations more efficient.

Expenses will be covered by state budget funds, and may be supplemented as needed.

Amorim also highlighted that the proposal aligns with recent changes in federal legislation. "We are taking into account the federal legislation that increased penalties for crimes against animals, which requires greater technical support in investigations, such as conducting forensic examinations, analyzing injuries, and identifying evidence," he stated.