APRIL 3, 2008

Statement of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office on the

Settlement Agreement in State v. Elizabeth James 

Our goal in this case, as it is in every case, is to do what is in the best interest of justice and community safety.  In particular, our objective was to ensure that the community is protected from vicious or potentially dangerous dogs.  We believe that the settlement achieves that purpose. 

In the event that we lost the appeal, the State would have no legal authority to impose any safety restrictions regarding the dogs.  As the defendant is agreeing to all of the safety precautions enumerated in the Vicious and Potentially Dangerous Dog Act, we feel this resolution is the most prudent course of action.

To read the settlement, click here.