Tuesday, May 10, 2005

Illinois: Devarryl Joiner's pit bull that bit a 12 year old just last month has now mauled a 3-year-old girl

ILLINOIS -- A dog that mauled a 3-year-old Chicago girl Sunday had been confiscated by the city last month after it bit another child, then released 10 days later.

The 60-pound pit bull reportedly broke loose from its chain in a Northwest Side home Sunday and attacked Akina Jackson, who was visiting the home.

The dog knocked the girl down, bit her face and ear and dragged her across the yard and sidewalk before neighbors could rescue her.

The dog was euthanized Sunday night. Authorities declined to discuss the condition of the girl, who was released from the hospital Monday.

Just last month Bruno, a 1-year-old pit bull owned by Devarryl Joiner of the 1600 block of North Moody Avenue, bit a 12-year-old boy on the hand and was quarantined for 10 days by the city's Department of Animal Care and Control, spokeswoman Melanie Sobel said.

Joiner was cited for failing to restrain and muzzle his dog, police spokesman Matthew Jackson said. He faces fines ranging from $300 to $10,000, Sobel said. He is scheduled to appear before a hearing officer on June 17.

(Chicago Tribune - May 9, 2005)