IMPLENTATION OF ARTICLE 302 OF THE CRIMINAL CODE ABOUT ANIMAL ABUSE (CASE STUDY AT SURABAYA METROPOLITAN POLICE)

Abstract

Animal abuse is a form of crime that still frequently occurs in society, but in practice there is still no adequate legal protection. The Criminal Code (KUHP) through Article 302 regulates the prohibition of animal abuse, but in practice, law enforcement still faces various obstacles. This study aims to determine and analyze the implementation of Article 302 of the Criminal Code in handling criminal acts of animal abuse in the jurisdiction of the Surabaya Metropolitan Police (Polrestabes Surabaya), as well as to identify the factors that hinder law enforcement against perpetrators of animal abuse. This study uses empirical legal research methods with a socio-juridical approach. The data used consists of primary data obtained through interviews with law enforcement officials at the Surabaya Police Headquarters, as well as secondary data in the form of laws and regulations, legal literature, scientific journals, and other supporting documents. Data collection techniques were carried out through interviews, documentation, and literature studies, which were then analyzed qualitatively. The results of the study show that the implementation of Article 302 of the Criminal Code at the Surabaya Metropolitan Police has not been optimal. Cases of animal cruelty are still considered minor crimes, so the penalties imposed have not had a deterrent effect on perpetrators. In addition, low public awareness of the law and difficulties in proving crimes through restorative justice mechanisms are major obstacles to law enforcement.