Dog Seized After Biting Four People

On July 27, police in Newmarket, New Hampshire seized a 2-year-old rottweiler mix after four individuals reported personal injuries from the dog attacking them over the two prior weeks.

According to Police Chief Kevin Cry, in the first incident, the dog jumped on a man and bit him, but it was not severe and the bite did not break the skin. The victim didn’t want a major investigation; he simply reported it so that the police would issue a warning to the dog’s owners.

On July 24, a second incident occurred when the dog attacked Newmarket resident Judith Wall, who was walking down the street at the time. She said that the dog ran towards her and bit her, creating a wound that required multiple stitches.

Cyr said that after Wall’s report, two others came forward claiming the dog had attacked them. Cyr said the dog’s vaccinations were up to date.

According to Cyr, after obtaining a warrant, police seized the dog, Che. New Hampshire state law allows police to seize a dog when it is considered to be a nuisance, a menace, or vicious to persons or property.

The rottweiler, owned by 26-year-old Jamie Duggan and her boyfriend, 29-year-old Stephen T. Bludsworth, is described as having pit bull-like features. Cyr said the couple has owned the dog for most of its life and there is no evidence of abuse.

According to Cyr, though the dog was held at a local kennel, its fate is in the hands of an Exeter District Court judge, who would decide whether it is a threat to society. The dog could issue fines to the owners, rule the dog be “put down,” or return the dog to the owners.