Bestiality finally outlawed in New Jersey

New Jersey Gov. Christopher J. Christie signed into law Monday legislation that closed a state loophole and officially outlawed bestiality.

The bill, which passed both the state Assembly and Senate without opposition in May, criminalizes any kind of sexual contact with an animal or creature.

While state laws explicitly forbid animal cruelty, including torturing or neglecting a creature, they did not specifically include human sexual activity with animals.

Assemblyman Jack M. Ciattarelli (R., Somerset County) said in May he became aware of the discrepancy after a Moorestown man was cleared of wrongdoing after allegedly molesting cows.

The crime is now punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000, and harsher penalties if the animal dies as a result of the abuse.