How didn't this get posted yet? (Or, the Pit Bull victims' revenge) [Archive]

AlamoSpursFan

10-14-2008, 06:00 PM

http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/D/DOG_ATTACK?SITE=TXSAE&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2008-10-14-16-55-17

Oct 14, 4:55 PM EDT

Texas couple gets 7 years after dogs kill child

GRAHAM, Texas (AP) -- A couple whose pit bulls fatally mauled their 7-year-old neighbor were sentenced to seven years in prison, the first conviction under a new Texas law that holds owners responsible if their dogs injure or kill someone.

Crystal Michelle Watson, 28, and Jack Wayne Smith, 45, were convicted Thursday of a dog attack resulting in death. The law says owners are guilty if their unsecured dogs injure or kill a person in an unprovoked attack off their property; those convicted can be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison.

"I compared it to someone leaving a gun out in front of children," Stephens County District Attorney Stephen Bristow told The Associated Press, recalling what he told jurors during the trial last week.

After the couple were sentenced Friday, state District Judge Stephen Crawford said both defendants would be eligible for release on $150,000 bond pending appeal, which is allowed for certain crimes with sentences of less than 10 years. Watson and Smith had not posted bail and remained in custody Monday.

Attorneys for the couple did not immediately return calls to the AP seeking comment.

Witnesses testified that on May 18, Tanner Joshua Monk walked toward Smith and Watson's house to play with some children, Bristow said. That afternoon, his body was found in a ditch surrounded by four pit bulls, about 100 yards from his home and about 70 yards from the defendants' property, authorities have said.

Deputies called to the scene had to kill two dogs that tried to attack them. Witnesses testified that when authorities went to pick up the other two, Smith turned over one but only reluctantly handed over the other. She said it was an indoor dog, although Tanner's blood was still on its coat, Bristow said.

The law enacted last year is called Lillian's Law after Lillian Stiles, 76, who was killed by a pack of dogs as she tended to flowers in her yard on Thanksgiving weekend in 2005.

Clandestino

10-14-2008, 06:09 PM

thats great

The Franchise

10-14-2008, 06:14 PM

Great law. If you want to own a stupid and agressive dog, you should be held responsible for its actions. To bad a child had to die AGAIN though.

Blake

10-14-2008, 08:46 PM

GOOD.

I friggin hate irresponsible pet owners. Especially after I hit that dog with my car a few weeks back and the passrby made me like an ass for killing it.

TheSanityAnnex

10-14-2008, 10:20 PM

sucks for the kid to have such stupid parents

Were these dogs properly identified yet or is this just ANOTHER case of misidentification? I see no dog breed experts cited in the article.

TheSanityAnnex

10-14-2008, 10:22 PM

what's funny is that the people who post these articles think they are actually changing pitbull owners minds.

CubanSucks

10-14-2008, 10:31 PM

what's funny is that the people who post these articles think they are actually changing pitbull owners minds.

+1

They can go fuck themselves. An indoor dog my ass. How much you wanna bet those dogs were chained up in the yard 24/7. Do that to any big dog and it's going to a dangerous.

Flight3107

10-14-2008, 11:12 PM

sucks for the kid to have such stupid parents

Were these dogs properly identified yet or is this just ANOTHER case of misidentification? I see no dog breed experts cited in the article.

Nope, a dog killed someone so it MUST be a Pit Bull.

lebomb

10-15-2008, 07:22 AM

Were these dogs properly identified yet or is this just ANOTHER case of misidentification? I see no dog breed experts cited in the article.

I think if it went to trial..............the dogs had to be properly identified :rolleyes

But, on the other hand......it could have been two dash hounds?! :(

Mixability

10-15-2008, 09:24 AM

sucks for the kid to have such stupid parents

:wtf

BacktoBasics

10-15-2008, 09:27 AM

As a huge advocate for Pit Bulls I agree with this ruling. You have to keep your dog secure on your property its the owners responsibility to maintain control of their pets. Now had the kid wandered into this guys backyard we wouldn't be seeing this same ruling.

ORION

10-15-2008, 09:30 AM

I can't imagine the poor parents when they found out their child was killed by dogs.

I Love Me Some Me

10-15-2008, 09:39 AM

"I compared it to someone leaving a gun out in front of children," Stephens County District Attorney Stephen Bristow told The Associated Press...

Then why not identify a pit bull as a lethal weapon, and require training and/or certification to own one?

Melmart1

10-15-2008, 10:03 AM

I don't get some of the reactions in here. PB advocates always blame the owners, not the breed but now that they are punishing the owners, they are upset? If it's the owners' fault, why shouldn't they be punished?

And how are the kids' parents stupid? He was going to play with other kids, and the dogs were loose? I guess all the parents of the kids he was about to play with are stupid, too? Hell, all parents are stupid for daring to let their kids play outside!!! I guess from now on, kids can only play indoors in case there are dogs lose, so that poor pet owners don't have to worry about prosecution from "stupid parents" who dare to let their kids play outside and get some fresh air and exercise.

Mixability

10-15-2008, 10:05 AM

And how are the kids' parents stupid? He was going to play with other kids, and the dogs were loose? I guess all the parents of the kids he was about to play with are stupid, too? Hell, all parents are stupid for daring to let their kids play outside!!! I guess from now on, kids can only play indoors in case there are dogs lose, so that poor pet owners don't have to worry about prosecution from "stupid parents" who dare to let their kids play outside and get some fresh air and exercise.

:clap

BacktoBasics

10-15-2008, 10:08 AM

Then why not identify a pit bull as a lethal weapon, and require training and/or certification to own one?because its not a lethal weapon and not any more harmful than most other breeds. People love the stigma of Pits so you end up with thousands of shitty owners that have no idea how to care for an animal or pet once the thrill of owning a branded breed wears off. They chain these dogs up in tight quarters, exercise them very little, smack them around because its cool to get a Pit worked up and some even put leg weights on these dogs to build up their lower body.

There should be required training or certification for all breeds or mutts.

BacktoBasics

10-15-2008, 10:09 AM

I Love Me Some Me

10-15-2008, 10:17 AM

because its not a lethal weapon and not any more harmful than most other breeds. People love the stigma of Pits so you end up with thousands of shitty owners that have no idea how to care for an animal or pet once the thrill of owning a branded breed wears off. They chain these dogs up in tight quarters, exercise them very little, smack them around because its cool to get a Pit worked up and some even put leg weights on these dogs to build up their lower body.

There should be required training or certification for all breeds or mutts.

I don't know...I think the data's out there that supports the theory that Pit Bulls are exceedingly more aggressive than even the next most aggressive dog.

Chain up a Pit in tight quarters, don't exercise them, smack them around, and put leg weights on them and you have a potentially lethal animal. Chain up a cocker spaniel, don't exercise them, smack them around, and put leg weights on them and you have a mean little cocker spaniel, not a deadly animal.

BacktoBasics

10-15-2008, 10:26 AM

I don't know...I think the data's out there that supports the theory that Pit Bulls are exceedingly more aggressive than even the next most aggressive dog.

Chain up a Pit in tight quarters, don't exercise them, smack them around, and put leg weights on them and you have a potentially lethal animal. Chain up a cocker spaniel, don't exercise them, smack them around, and put leg weights on them and you have a mean little cocker spaniel, not a deadly animal.Its been posted here a million times the data doesn't support the theory that Pits are exceedingly more agressive.

You chain anything up and neglect it you'll likely find an agressive animal. Pits are easily the most abused dog out there.

The AKC list Pit Bulls as a family and child friendly dog. They need space and a tremendeous amount of exercise which they almost never get. Pits are often used for leading the blind and human animal rehabilitation programs.

They're labeled and the media feeds off it. Just like they feed off of anything that could remotely stir the pot.

Any knowledgable dog breeder or pet expert will tell you its not the dog.

I Love Me Some Me

10-15-2008, 10:38 AM

Its been posted here a million times the data doesn't support the theory that Pits are exceedingly more agressive.

You chain anything up and neglect it you'll likely find an agressive animal. Pits are easily the most abused dog out there.

The AKC list Pit Bulls as a family and child friendly dog. They need space and a tremendeous amount of exercise which they almost never get. Pits are often used for leading the blind and human animal rehabilitation programs.

They're labeled and the media feeds off it. Just like they feed off of anything that could remotely stir the pot.

Any knowledgable dog breeder or pet expert will tell you its not the dog.

The AKC actually doesn't recognize the Pit Bull. The UKC does, and states "Because most APBTs exhibit some level of dog aggression and because of its powerful physique, the APBT requires an owner who will carefully socialize and obedience train the dog."

RandomGuy

10-15-2008, 12:50 PM

Meh. I wonder about the data that says pit bulls aren't more dangerous than other dogs.

The problem with such dogs is that idiots like them. Not that all pit bull owners are idiots mind you, just that there is a macho cache about the dogs.

A lot of people seem to be attracted to the dogs simply because they look tough or whatever, and those are the kinds of people who I would imagine are least able or least motivated to make sure that their animals are socialized, and most likely to neglect them in such a way as to make them dangerous.

BacktoBasics

10-15-2008, 12:57 PM

I. Hustle

10-15-2008, 01:04 PM

They should make laser cats illegal

Ed Helicopter Jones

10-15-2008, 02:09 PM

This is a great ruling. In my heart of hearts I believe that the pit owners are truly responsible for the problems associated with this breed of dog, not the dogs themselves. As much as I have harrassed the pit owners/supporters in here, it's ultimately the dog owner, not necessarily the animal itself that is responsible when someone gets hurt. No matter what breed of dog you have, you need to be concerned about the welfare of those around you in how you choose to care for your pet.

I owned a somewhat aggressive male great dane several years ago, and, as a result, he didn't get to go out in public as much as my other danes did. That was just the nature of this particular animal, and I was always aware that he could potentially hurt someone. He was the only dane I ever owned that was aggressive at all with people. Even he was a big baby most of the time, he was just very protective of his 'pack' and that was his weakness from a socialization standpoint.

The problem is, a lot of folks don't care enough about other people, or are too damn dumb, to properly control their animals. And for some reason, the tough-guy, insecure types seem drawn to pitbulls like moths to a flame. These people aren't usually the type to be too concerned about the welfare of others. Even if their dogs kill someone they'll likely play the 'victim' card as they're being dragged off to jail. Oh well, perhaps this prison time threat will thin the herd of stupid dog owners out there.

Perhaps they need to develop some sort of intelligence test that one must pass before they're allowed to purchase a pitbull.

Mixability

10-15-2008, 02:22 PM

Perhaps they need to develop some sort of intelligence test that one must pass before they're allowed to purchase a pitbull.

But I'm sure the dumbasses who sell pit pups out of their trunk in Little Mexico (SW Military Drive) won't issue that test.

I. Hustle

10-15-2008, 02:33 PM

But I'm sure the dumbasses who sell pit pups out of their trunk in Little Mexico (SW Military Drive) won't issue that test.

Sure they will.

Customer: Hello my friend. I would like to purchase one of the fine canines that you are selling out of your trunk.

Seller: Chure ok. But first I need to give you the telligence tests.

Customer: An intelligence test? Well ok Fire away Jose.

Seller: My name is Feliciano but thass ok Biff. First quession. Were joo smart enough to bring 200 dollars?

Customer: Um yes I brought enough.

Seller: Ok then sir joo are berry smart and have passed my telligence tess. Here is jour puppy.

Mixability

10-15-2008, 02:36 PM

Sure they will.

Customer: Hello my friend. I would like to purchase one of the fine canines that you are selling out of your trunk.

Seller: Chure ok. But first I need to give you the telligence tests.

Customer: An intelligence test? Well ok Fire away Jose.

Seller: My name is Feliciano but thass ok Biff. First quession. Were joo smart enough to bring 200 dollars?

Customer: Um yes I brought enough.

Seller: Ok then sir joo are berry smart and have passed my telligence tess. Here is jour puppy.

AND........

Seller: Be chure to take dees proof of purchess to my tia Tencha over there so she'll give you a deal on the sandias she's selling!

smeagol

10-15-2008, 02:38 PM

I don't get some of the reactions in here. PB advocates always blame the owners, not the breed but now that they are punishing the owners, they are upset? If it's the owners' fault, why shouldn't they be punished?

It is obviously the owners' fault. Good thing they got punished.

And how are the kids' parents stupid? He was going to play with other kids, and the dogs were loose? I guess all the parents of the kids he was about to play with are stupid, too? Hell, all parents are stupid for daring to let their kids play outside!!! I guess from now on, kids can only play indoors in case there are dogs lose, so that poor pet owners don't have to worry about prosecution from "stupid parents" who dare to let their kids play outside and get some fresh air and exercise.

Disregard that comment. It is coming from a stupid poster.

Ed Helicopter Jones

10-15-2008, 02:40 PM

sucks for the kid to have such stupid parents

Remember my comment about stupid dog owners?

I present, Exhibit A.

I. Hustle

10-15-2008, 02:42 PM

AND........

Seller: Be chure to take dees proof of purchess to my tia Tencha over there so she'll give you a deal on the sandias she's selling!

+1

TheSanityAnnex

10-15-2008, 06:55 PM

The AKC actually doesn't recognize the Pit Bull. The UKC does, and states "Because most APBTs exhibit some level of dog aggression and because of its powerful physique, the APBT requires an owner who will carefully socialize and obedience train the dog."key words there, dog aggression. Pits were bred to fight other dogs, and during this time, any pit that bit the hand of it's owner while fighting was killed. They bred the line to not be aggressive towards humans. They are not naturally aggressive towards humans, their aggression towards humans is a learned trait. Blame the owners.

jcrod

10-15-2008, 07:29 PM

DarkReign

10-17-2008, 02:15 PM

I agree that the parents are at fault also.

I would never let my 7 yr old go outside by himself, let alone walk to a neighbors house. COME ON.

The dog owners are to blame, but how do you not see the parents are idiots?

Dripping with sarcasm or idiocy.

you decide.

The Franchise

10-17-2008, 02:54 PM

key words there, dog aggression. Pits were bred to fight other dogs, and during this time, any pit that bit the hand of it's owner while fighting was killed. They bred the line to not be aggressive towards humans. They are not naturally aggressive towards humans, their aggression towards humans is a learned trait.

Please go do some actual research before making comments like these. Thank you.

BacktoBasics

10-17-2008, 03:05 PM

Please go do some actual research before making comments like these. Thank you.

As described by AKC

Temperament: This breed is extremely loyal, deeply devoted, affectionate, intelligent, and good-natured. The American Pit Bull Terrier does best in a home with older considerate children. They will get along with other dogs they have been raised with but may exhibit aggression toward strange dogs and other small household pets. They are exceedingly protective of their family, home, and territory. American Pit Bull Terriers are not generally used for guarding due to their friendly nature. Aggressive behavior toward humans is an uncharacteristic trait in this breed. They are not recommended for the novice, apathetic, or sedentary owner.

Maybe you should do some homework

spursfan09

10-17-2008, 03:08 PM

sucks for the kid to have such stupid parents

.

:wtf

ok so make kids stay inside locked up, so the dogs can happily roam around?

BacktoBasics

10-17-2008, 03:10 PM

:wtf

ok so make kids stay inside locked up, so the dogs can happily roam around?

For the millionth fucking time he was trolling. Jesus its hard to believe such an obvious troll job sparked a riot. You people need to learn to laugh and move on.

BacktoBasics

10-17-2008, 03:12 PM

and as I stated earlier

Activity: This breed requires a high degree of exercise to keep them happy. They enjoy securely leashed walks, hiking, and mountain-biking. The American Pit Bull Terrier thrives on human interaction and benefits from family play sessions such as Frisbee and playing ball. They will do okay in an apartment dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, attention, and stimulation.

Most of the douchebag losers who want the thrill of owning a pit have no clue how much attention they need. These assfucks just chain them up and expect them to look cool.

spursfan09

10-17-2008, 03:17 PM

For the millionth fucking time he was trolling. Jesus its hard to believe such an obvious troll job sparked a riot. You people need to learn to laugh and move on.

hey well if its posted I can respond to it however the fuck i want.

BacktoBasics

10-17-2008, 03:27 PM

hey well if its posted I can respond to it however the fuck i want.
If thats the case then I have the right to point out the stupidity in your response.

spursfan09

10-17-2008, 03:34 PM

For the millionth fucking time he was trolling. Jesus its hard to believe such an obvious troll job sparked a riot. You people need to learn to laugh and move on.

ok well sorry I missed the part where he stated he was just trolling. and i need to laugh? I'm reading this story that I just heard about where a 7 yr old was killed by some dogs. yeah I was in such a laughing mood.

BacktoBasics

10-17-2008, 03:38 PM

Still waiting for The Franchise to admit he was wrong...

spursfan09

10-17-2008, 03:44 PM

Oh and I don't see the stupidity in my response. I didn't get the joke or didn't see it whatever. To me stupidity is posting something like that in the first place. But this is the society we live in.

BacktoBasics

10-17-2008, 03:48 PM

ok well sorry I missed the part where he stated he was just trolling. and i need to laugh? I'm reading this story that I just heard about where a 7 yr old was killed by some dogs. yeah I was in such a laughing mood.Apology accepted.

spursfan09

10-17-2008, 04:25 PM

Apology accepted.

:lol

I thought since you had the ability to detect trolling, i thought you had the ability to detect scarcasm.

BacktoBasics

10-17-2008, 05:11 PM

:lol

I thought since you had the ability to detect trolling, i thought you had the ability to detect scarcasm.
I accept that apology too.

spursfan09

10-17-2008, 05:18 PM

TheSanityAnnex

10-17-2008, 06:42 PM

Please go do some actual research before making comments like these. Thank you.I'd say the same to you.

You'll find plenty of articles that discuss how the American Pit Bull Terriers were killed by their owners if they bit any humans during a baiting match, I don't need to post them all. Like you said, do some research.

Here are some stats I will post though, temperament test. Do some research and then tell me that these stats don't prove me right. Pit Bulls are not naturally aggressive to humans. Next!

http://www.atts.org/stats1.html
It is reported on temperament tests conducted by the American Temperament Test Society the American Pit Bull Terrier has a current (December 2004) passing rate of 83.9% (http://www.atts.org/stats1.html) -- compared to only 77% of the general dog population.

http://www.paw-rescue.org/petbulls.htmlAccording to the American Canine Temperament Testing Association, 95%of the American Pit Bull Terriers that took its temperament test passed, compared to a 77% passing rate for all breeds on average. Furthermore, APBTs had a passing rate that was the fourth highest of all 122 breeds tested.

AlamoSpursFan

10-18-2008, 08:39 AM

Pit Bulls are not naturally aggressive to humans. Next!

There's a completely unacceptable number of perforated, folded, spindled and mutilated dead folks who would disagree with your statement, were they not currently taking the dirt nap because pit bulls thought they looked like tasty treats.

BacktoBasics

10-18-2008, 08:48 AM

There's a completely unacceptable number of perforated, folded, spindled and mutilated dead folks who would disagree with your statement, were they not currently taking the dirt nap because pit bulls thought they looked like tasty treats.Minimum absolute minimum 30% of those reported attacks are misidentified dogs.

A few months ago I posted a story about a pit attack. Pit gets out and bites a guy blah blah blah. Only this time I knew the homeowner and I knew the dog because it was near my mother in laws house. It was a fucking German Shepard. I contacted both the paper and the news affiliate that reported the attack and neither were willing to correct their story. This happens all the fucking time.