Pit bull attack on Delaware Twp. boy deemed not criminal

NEW JERSEY -- Frankie Hall's neighbors took care to secure their red-nosed pit bull Diesel when visitors came over, not that there had been any serious incidents with the dog, "but they always kept the dog separated from company," said township Police Sgt. Elliot Gray.

Frankie, 7, was seriously wounded by the dog on July 4 when he was at the neighbors' home playing and watching fireworks.

Gray described what township officers' investigation has determined happened.

"Frankie had been to the residence several times, and the dog was always secured," Gray said today.

On July 4, "no one actually witnessed" the attack, but Frankie was able to tell police what he knew.

"Frankie said he was outside playing and watching the fireworks go off, when Diesel got loose from inside the garage.

"Diesel charged at him and tried to bite his neck, but missed and latched on to his face."

Grownups immediately came over and got the dog off Frankie, Gray said. He noted that the homeowner put the dog down.

Frankie underwent five hours of reconstructive surgery by a team at Morristown Trauma Center, and will need more surgery in the future. But he's home now recuperating. A Go Fund Me site, "Frankie's medical fund," has been set up by a family friend, where people can contribute to help with ongoing medical expenses.

After a full investigation by township police and review by the county Prosecutor's Office, no criminal charges are pending from those offices, Gray said, "outside of having an unlicensed dog."

Prosecutor's Detective Frank Crisologo confirmed that today, saying "it was deemed not to be criminal in nature."

The New Jersey SPCA's Humane Police are investigating, however. The agency's Sgt. Phil Amato "is investigating the whole incident, from the bite to the dog being put down," Gray said. Amato could not immediately be reached for comment.

(NJ.com - July 22, 2015)