Public Safety

Manslaughter Charges Filed in Fatal Dog Mauling

Involuntary manslaughter charges have been filed against the owners of two pit bulls that mauled an elderly woman, the San Diego County District Attorney's Office announced today.

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Involuntary manslaughter charges have been filed against the owners of two pit bulls that mauled an elderly woman, the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office announced today.

On June 18, 2011, the dogs attacked 75-year-old Emako Mendoza while she was in her back yard. Mendoza died as a result of her injuries on December 24.

During a court appearance this morning, Alba Cornelio, 39, and her daughter, Carla Cornelio, 19, were arraigned on charges of involuntary manslaughter and death from mischievous animal. Both pleaded not guilty.

The pair had previously been arraigned on multiple other criminal charges including serious bodily injury from mischievous animal, a felony; failure to provide public protection from dogs; owning or having custody of a dangerous animal/dog causing injury; and failure to restrain a dog, all three misdemeanors.

The women now face four years and eight months in prison if convicted of all of the charges. Bail remains set by the court at $350,000 for each defendant. A preliminary hearing date is set for April 17.

During the June 2011 attack, the dogs entered the victim’s yard through a hole in the fence. The dogs had previously escaped and attacked a man and his puppy.