Vicious Animal, Dog at Large – 1400 block of 28th Street

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On May 12, 2018, the Gulfport Police Department responded to a report of a dog bite in the Regency Way Apartments located at 1400 28th Street. The complainant stated that her nine year old daughter was bitten in the face by a pit bull that belonged to another resident. The child was playing with the dog who was loose in the complex. The incident occurred on the previous day. The complainant stated that the delay in reporting was due to her taking her child immediately to a hospital for treatment. Gulfport Animal Control was contacted and a report generated. Charges were filed against the dogs owner for Vicious Animal and Dog at Large. Shyia Tippens was determined to be the owner of the dog.

On May 17, 2018, Tippens was made aware of the charges in this case and turned herself in at the Gulfport Police Department. The child was treated and released after receiving medical treatment. Tippens did have the proper documents regarding rabies vaccinations.

We would like to urge caution to all citizens if they see a dog that does not belong to them. It is best not to approach dogs or other animals and to notify the Gulfport Police Department and Animal Control at 228-868-5959 if a dog is observed at large.