An emergency hearing that will likely determine the fate of two dogs accused of attacking an eight-year-old girl will be held today, Wednesday, April 16, at 1 p.m.
Fannin County Chief Magistrate Judge Brian Jones ordered the hearing after a motion by county commission Chairman Jamie Hensley Friday, April 11.
Hensley asked for a hearing while the dogs are still being held at Animal Control under a 10-day rabies quarantine.
Julie Ann Chalk, 66, of 297 Mineral Springs Road, Apartment 25, Blue Ridge, is accused on an accusation/summons on a county ordinance of Dangerous Animal Nuisance, Potentially Dangerous Animal as a result of a dog attack Monday, April 7.
According to a report filed by Deputy Kaylee Robertson of the Fannin County Sheriff’s Office, Chalk stated she had opened her door and the two dogs ran out. She said she warned children playing outside to watch out for them because they had gotten out and they might bite.
Two juveniles who were present said Chalk had warned them, and the dogs ran after them some time after that. They had been able to run to the bushes and hide, but the victim could not get away from the dogs.
Chalk could not advise Robertson if the dogs were up to date on their rabies vaccines, so they were picked up by Fannin County Animal Control and immediately placed under a 10-day hold.
The victim was transported to Blue Ridge Medical Center by Fannin County EMS. She suffered at least 16 lacerations and puncture wounds to both legs, the report said.
If convicted of the county ordinance charge, Chalk faces a maximum fine of $1,000. The court will also decide if the two dogs are legally considered dangerous animals.