Judge Timothy Alden declared the 2-year-old pit bull mix dangerous. The court imposed a $400 fine on the dog's owner, Michael N. Christon, of 142 Feeder Dam Road.
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According to court documents, the dog bit 7-year-old Kadyn Creel in the cheek after escaping from Christon's yard on the evening of May 27.
On June 16, the dog bit 85-year-old Julia Scoville after again escaping from the yard.
Both victims reported facial lacerations and incurred medical bills because of the incidents.
Alden could have had to dog euthanized, but instead ordered five conditions, including the payment of the $400 fine, that will allow Christon to keep the canine:
- Christon must erect a fence that won't allow the dog's escape;Christon will be responsible for financing the last two procedures and providing proof to the town animal control officer.
- The dog must be muzzled, leashed and under the control of an adult aged 21 or older whenever off premises;
- The dog must be neutered;
- The dog must have a microchip implanted beneath its skin within 30 days.
An invisible, electric fence is currently the only barrier between the dog and the outside world.
Tucker Stanclift, the lawyer for the young girl's mother, Brittany Creel, is investigating whether a negligence lawsuit can be brought against Christon or the town of Moreau, or both.
Christon said late last week that he witnessed the first incident and believes the dog was trying to lick the girl's face.
(Post Star - June 28, 2011)
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