Webcam lets you observe vicious pit bull's life behind bars

ARIZONA -- A pit bull confined to a shelter for life after attacking a 4-year-old Phoenix boy can now be seen 24 hours a day on the Web, a move that likely will fetch the dog — if not his jailers — more attention.

The webcam installed in Mickey's First Avenue Jail cell months ago went live Wednesday, allowing anyone with an Internet connection to see what the 3-year-old dog is doing 24 hours a day.

Mickey is one of the more than 50 cats and dogs housed in the Maricopa County Sheriff's Animal Safe House (MASH) Unit, which cares for animals that have been abused or neglected.

  

  

The pit bull, however, is serving a court-ordered sentence for a February attack that left Kevin Vicente with severe facial lacerations. His teeth have been ground down on court order.

The camera, as well as Mickey's care, is funded by those who stepped forward to save the dog from potential euthanasia. John Schill, the Phoenix attorney who represented Mickey, and Mickey supporter Annie Duddy contributed $1,000 for the MickeyCam.

Have they given any money to the family of the little boy whose face was ripped apart?

"People are still very interested in Mickey," Schill said. "We want to show he's being rehabilitated and not a dog that should be feared."

 

 

 

"People are still very interested in Mickey,"
Schill said. "We want to show he's being rehabilitated
and not a dog that should be feared."

 

The pit bull's cell is the only one in the jail to have its bunks and tables removed, allowing Mickey room to roam. Mickey supporters volunteered for the work after the pit bull was sentenced in April.

Supporters also hope the camera brings attention to the animals in MASH awaiting adoption, Schill said.

"I know of a dog that's been there since he was a puppy. The more attention paid to MASH, the better for the animals there," Schill said.

I think this is a great idea. Now, when it attacks one of those inmates who are forced to feed and water it, we'll have it on tape! And her family can sue the sheriff's office for millions for putting her in harm's way.

(AZ Central - Dec 3, 2014)

Earlier:

• Boy disfigured and in critical condition while nutbags clamor to protest, raise money and try to save pit bull's life
• Mauling of Phoenix boy keys debate over fate of pit bull
• Sheriff Arpaio says "Mickey the pit bull an 'exemplary inmate'"

Related:

• The Truth About the Lexus Project
• For the Love of Kevin