CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE, N.J. — Authorities will take three days off a New Jersey inmate's sentence after he rescued an animal shelter worker from a pit bull attack.
Justin Peggs was working off a 45-day sentence for assault at the Cape May County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center in Middle Township when the dog sank its teeth into Kathleen James' thigh.
James told The Press of Atlantic City the 22-year-old inmate heard her cries and jumped on the dog, holding it down until the staff could subdue it.
James was given stitches in three different places from the bites and the dog was euthanized. The pit was mild as James walked it into the kennel on Sept. 17, but its temper flared when it saw other canines barking and growling, The Press reports.
Responding to James screams, Peggs -- who had been stocking shelves nearby -- pinned the dog to the ground and restrained it until other workers got a noose pole.
Peggs is participating in the Sheriff Labor Assistance Program, which allows him to complete his jail time by working nights or weekends for the county.
Our 2024 Coverage Needs You
Already contributed? Log in to hide these messages.