Why You Need a Missouri Agroterrorism Lawyer Immediately
- Agroterrorism is a felony offense, with penalties ranging from 4 years to 15 years in prison.
- Prosecutors aggressively pursue convictions, often relying on scientific evidence and government agencies.
- A strong defense can challenge the charges, whether through lack of intent, weak evidence, or legal exemptions.
Your future is on the line. Call Combs Waterkotte's Missouri agroterrorism lawyers at (314) 900-HELP for an immediate consultation.
What Is Agroterrorism in Missouri?
Agroterrorism is a felony offense under Missouri law (RSMo §574.130), involving the intentional spread of contagious or infectious diseases to disrupt agriculture and food supply. This crime applies to:
- Crops – Such as wheat, corn, soybeans, and other essential agricultural products.
- Poultry – Including chickens, turkeys, and egg production farms.
- Livestock – Such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and other farm animals.
- Other Agricultural Resources – Any aspect of Missouri’s farming and food production infrastructure.
When Does Contaminating Crops or Livestock Become Agroterrorism in Missouri?
Agroterrorism charges only apply to intentional acts, meaning accidental contamination or certain exceptions do not qualify as crimes.
What Are the Defenses or Exceptions to Agroterrorism Charges in Missouri?
Missouri law provides exemptions for legitimate agricultural disease management and scientific research, meaning certain medical treatments and research activities do not qualify as agroterrorism.
- Medically Recognized Therapeutic Procedures (Legitimate Veterinary & Agricultural Disease Management)
- Vaccination Programs – Approved vaccines used to prevent the spread of diseases in livestock and poultry.
- Disease Treatment with Medications – The use of antibiotics, antifungals, or antivirals to control infections in animals or plants.
- Culling & Controlled Exposure – In some cases, controlled disease exposure or herd immunity programs are used to prevent larger outbreaks.
- Pest & Crop Disease Control – The application of fungicides, pesticides, or biological control agents to protect crops from contamination.
- Biosecurity & Quarantine Measures – Enforcing controlled exposure protocols to stop disease spread within livestock populations.
- Legitimate Scientific Research Exemption (Protected Under Missouri Law)
- Government & University Studies – Research conducted by agricultural scientists, veterinarians, or biosecurity experts to study disease resistance and food safety.
- Testing Disease Resistance – Introducing controlled pathogens in laboratory or field trials to test disease-resistant livestock or crops.
- Biological Control Research – Using natural pathogens, fungi, or beneficial microbes to fight plant and animal diseases.
- FDA & USDA-Approved Experiments – Studies performed under federal guidelines for food and agricultural security.
- Controlled Disease Simulations – Research modeling potential outbreaks and biosecurity responses for future preparedness.
If you’ve been accused of agroterrorism in Missouri but were engaged in legitimate research or disease control efforts, you may have a strong legal defense. Call Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP for an immediate case evaluation.
What Happens if I'm Convicted of Agroterrorism in Missouri?
Agroterrorism is a serious felony offense in Missouri, with penalties that vary based on the extent of the damage and potential federal involvement.
- Class E Felony – Standard agroterrorism charges are punishable by up to 4 years in prison and fines.
- Class B Felony – If the damage exceeds $10 million, the charge is increased to a Class B felony, carrying at least 5 years and up to 15 years in prison.
- Additional Federal Charges – Agroterrorism may also involve federal biosecurity and terrorism laws, which can lead to even harsher penalties, including life in prison in extreme cases.
An agroterrorism conviction can have devastating legal and financial consequences. Protect your future—call Combs Waterkotte's Missouri criminal defense attorneys at (314) 900-HELP today.
