Dog owner charged after attack investigation

UPDATE: 10-9-17

The owner of 3 dogs involved in an attack on a Blackfoot woman September 25 will face a number of charges.

Blackfoot Police said Monday Troy M. Smith, 47, has been charged with 3 counts of “Dog At Large,” a city infraction, 3 counts of “Harboring Vicious Animals,” misdemeanors, and 1 count of “Violation of Owner Restriction,” possessing 3 or more dogs within city limits, a misdemeanor.

Police said their investigation of the case is complete.

ORIGINAL STORY:

The Blackfoot Police Department responded to a call of a pit bull attacking a woman on Monday, September 25.

When officers arrived, they found a 58-year-old female lying face down in her own backyard, and three dogs were circling her.

Officers feared for her safety and observed she had already suffered serious bodily harm. In order to enter the yard and render aid, one of the dogs was shot and killed by the officers. The other two dogs then ran back to their own yard.

Police report the victim was severely injured and bleeding from multiple dog bites, including at least one to the face.

Officers and EMS were then able to assist the victim, and she was transported to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center.

After some investigation, police determined the victim’s dog was first attacked and killed by the dogs that had come into the yard.

The victim went out when she heard the attack on her dog and was attacked.

The other two dogs were later turned over by the owner.

At this time, the investigation is still ongoing.

Police said no other information will be released until the investigation, including determination on criminal charges, is completed.