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Newport News officials searching for dangerous dog and owner after attacks

Posted at 12:21 PM, Oct 09, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-09 22:51:10-04

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - A dog and owner are wanted by the Newport News Animal Services Division.

Officials are asking for public assistance in finding Ryan Gardner and his dog, "Brody."

Ryan Michael Garner

Gardner is wanted in connection with a dog attack that happened on September 14 in the 100 block of Yeardley Drive.

"He attacked my dog instantly. There was no trying to play. He just latched onto my dog," said Stephanie Finch, who says her seven-year-old shepherd mix, Caesar, required thousands of dollars in surgery following the attack at her apartment complex. "He was told that he was a trespasser. He doesn't live on this property. He doesn't pay to have a dog here and so I was just really, really angry."

Officials said this is the second time in nine months where Gardner's dog attacked another dog. Brody was classified as a Dangerous Dog after a court hearing.

"The dog came out of nowhere and got Kevin while he was using the bathroom and tore his groin area to shreds," said Erica Mika, who says her six-year-old doberman, Kevin, was attacked Christmas Eve.

In both attacks the dogs that were hurt survived their life threatening injuries.

Gardner is described as a while male, 35-years-old.

Brody

His last known address is in the 10 block of White Oak Drive but he may frequent the 300 block of Majestic Court.

Warrants have been issued against Gardner for vicious dog, dangerous dog - failure to obey control requirements, and dangerous dog – failure to notify of reporting event.

Brody is described as an older, male American Pit Bull Terrier that is mostly light brown in color, with a white chest, and a black muzzle.

If you have any information that can help authorities call the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.