What enhances the penalty for interference with police service animals from Class C to Class B?

The enhancement of the penalty for interference with police service animals from a Class C to a Class B misdemeanor occurs when throwing objects or substances at the animal. This action is considered a direct threat to the safety and effectiveness of the police service animal and thus escalates the severity of the offense. Throwing objects shows a clear intent to harm or obstruct the animal's duties, which can compromise law enforcement efforts.

Each scenario presents different forms of interference, but throwing objects is distinct because it not only poses a physical hazard but also demonstrates active confrontation that could endanger both the police animal and its partner, the officer. Other actions, while potentially illegal and serious, do not carry the same specific provision for penalty enhancement concerning police service animals.