PORTLAND, Ore. — The second suspect in a dog mauling case that left a woman with severe injuries appeared in court on Friday. The attack occurred in July 2024, when Mytoka Petry, a Portland resident, was attacked by a pack of dogs near an encampment in North Portland.
According to court documents, Petry was walking down a trail near her brother’s apartment when she encountered the dogs, which were allegedly owned by Alexandria Hendon and Cierra Graham. The attack left Petry with horrific injuries, including the amputation of her left arm, the loss of her left ear, and severe damage to her lips. Petry also sustained a range of other serious injuries, many of which have left lasting physical and emotional scars.
Authorities report that Graham had previously admitted to police that her dogs had attempted to attack people in the past. She faces three counts of maintaining a dangerous dog and pleaded not guilty during her court appearance on Friday. Graham’s next court date is scheduled for June.
Hendon, the co-owner of the dogs involved, was also charged with multiple counts related to maintaining dangerous animals. She pleaded not guilty to five counts of maintaining a dangerous dog in a hearing on Monday. Hendon’s next court date is set for April.
The case has raised concerns about the safety of dog owners who may not properly manage or control dangerous animals, particularly in areas near public spaces. The outcome of these proceedings could have significant implications for local regulations surrounding dangerous dogs and owner accountability in Oregon.
As the legal process unfolds, Petry’s family and community continue to process the impact of the attack, which has not only altered her life but also sparked broader discussions about public safety and animal control policies.