On Tuesday, Aug, 11, federal law enforcement announced a new FBI tip line and $5,000 reward for information leading to the successful prosecution of criminals who violate the Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act. The statute criminalizes engaging in animal abuse and carries penalties of up to seven years in prison.

Successful tips include specific evidence – photographs, videos, dates, times, locations and a description of who is committing these crimes, which include “animal crushing” videos.

People with evidence against those suspected of breaking this law are encouraged to email the FBI at LA-AnimalCrimesTipline@ic. fbi.gov. The dedicated email account will be reviewed by the Animal Abuse Task Force.

Created last year, the task force focuses on charging serious animal abuse crimes throughout the Central District of California, which includes Los Angeles County. Led by federal prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s Office of Environmental Crimes and Consumer Protection, the task force works in partnership with the FBI, the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, the Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles City Animal Control and other state and local law enforcement officers. LA-AnimalCrimes Tipline@ic.fbi.gov.