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Amy Willi, age 45, of Mastic, pleaded guilty to reckless endangerment in Suffolk County Court on Wednesday, Sept. 25.
Prosecutors said Willi opened her front door while the boy was playing in his yard across the street in March 2023. As soon as the door opened, her dog ran outside and went toward the boy.
The toddler’s uncle, who had been watching him as he played, picked him up to protect him. Moments later, the dog bit the man on his forearm, causing his nephew to fall to the ground.
The dog then bit the boy multiple times on his face, head, and leg, leaving numerous lacerations to his right eye, cheek, scalp, and leg. The attack finally stopped when several relatives ran outside and grabbed the animal.
According to prosecutors, the boy was rushed to Stony Brook University Hospital and received numerous stitches.
Willi admitted to Suffolk County Police that she knew her dog was dangerous and was prone to violence.
As part of her guilty plea, prosecutors required that she not be allowed to own, possess, or care for any animals for three years. She is scheduled to be sentenced on Wednesday, Nov. 20.
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney said the case should serve as a reminder of the importance of securing pets.
“The defendant’s dog’s dangerous tendencies coupled with her failure to properly secure the animal led to an innocent child and his uncle sustaining serious injuries.
"Pet owners must understand the serious responsibility that comes with owning animals,” Tierney said.
“Necessary precautions pet owners must take to ensure the safety of their pets and the community include maintaining secure enclosures, using leashes in public areas, and not leaving their animals unattended where they could potentially escape.
"Failure to do so can lead to tragic consequences, as seen in this case.”
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