Hudson Valley Judge Sentences Two Dogs To Death

A Red Hook judge has sentenced two dogs to death after they attacked a jogger in late December. The Judge said it was case with  no "true villains" and "only victims."

The unidentified woman was attacked on December 30th while jogging on a public road in Red Hook. The two Cane Corso dogs, named Tank and Gemma, each weighed over 100 pounds. The attack occurred after the dogs got loose from the defendants property.

According to court documents, the attacked woman suffered serious injuries. She was taken to Northern Dutchess Hospital and later transported to Albany Medical Center for extensive surgery.  The surgery involved over 100 stitches to close her wounds, including a deep major tissue tear in her left leg. She testified that she is still in great pain and that part of her leg muscle is missing, which will require further surgery.

Red Hook Judge Jonah Triebwasser wrote that the dogs and owner are also victims. The "Defendant herself was a victim, a victim of surprise as there was no testimony that she had any prior indication that these dogs would be dangerous to humans."

"The dogs themselves were victims, victims of some inbred calling of ancient days past when the sight of a creature running meant that it was prey to be chased and pounced upon," he said.

In court the dogs owner, Jessica South, produced seven witnesses who all testified credibly that the dogs were always well-behaved in their presence.

State law says animals must be put to sleep or confined if an unprovoked dog attacks a person, which causes injury or death.  The court ordered the dogs be humanely euthanised because there is no guarantee, that if confined, the dogs wouldn't escape and attack again.

After handing down the sentence, the judge granted a 30 day stay allowing time for an appeal.  The dogs are currently in custody of Red Hook animal control and will stay there until the outcome is finalized.

Here's a little more information about the breed of dog in question, the Cane Corso.