Smithfield Dog Owner Cited After Pit Bull Injures Multiple Victims
SMITHFIELD, N.C. – A dog allegedly linked to two separate biting incidents in Smithfield has been seized after authorities say five people were injured over the course of several weeks.
The most recent attack happened March 21 on Forbes Drive, according to the Smithfield Police Department. Officers said a 62-year-old woman was working in her yard when the dog approached and bit her. Two individuals who intervened to help were also bitten during the incident.
The woman was transported by Johnston County EMS to a nearby hospital for treatment, while the other two victims were treated at the scene.
Investigators said the same dog had been involved in an earlier incident on March 5. In that case, two people were attacked after the dog reportedly broke loose. One victim suffered a lip injury, while another sustained moderate injuries to her arm and was taken to the hospital.
Police identified the dog’s owner as Keith Allan Cotoia, 41, of South Sixth Street. Following the earlier incident, he was cited for a leash law violation. After the March 21 attack, additional citations were issued, including allowing a dog to run at large and an animal bite violation—both under local ordinances.
After the second incident, Johnston County Animal Services took custody of the dog.
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Here comes the ridiculous comments about Pit Bulls being dangerous dogs. Pit Bulls aren’t even a breed of dog. It’s an umbrella term.
“Pit bull” is not a single, official breed, but rather an umbrella term for a type of dog that includes several breeds and their mixes. It generally refers to dogs with similar physical traits—muscular, short-coated, and broad-headed—including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Dave,
Regardless of what you want to call it, I call it a biteing dog. Several incidents. Action has to be taken even if its a mutt.
Maybe reread my comment and comprehend it on the second go around. Wasn’t arguing the fact that the dog bit someone. I simply said the people would comment about Pit Bulls being a dangerous breed.
They should take custody of the **** owner, too.
It’s NOT THE BREED IT’S THE BREEDERS AND OWNERS! I have pit’s and they are the best breed I have ever owned. I have never had an issue with mine but, they have been trained right from wrong. Owners need to be held responsible for the actions of their animals as they should be for their minor children.