Cumberland County passes $500 fine for dog bites

According to the revised Animal Control ordinance, the owner of a dog faces a $500 fine for any bite that results in the victim needing medical attention.

Officials say about 1,400 people have reported dog bites in Cumberland County in the past year. That's up about 40 percent from the average in the past few years.

Officials say packs of dogs have been reported in rural parts of the county.

Commission Chairman Ken Edge said he hopes the new ordinance would be a deterrent for owners of dangerous dogs.