An Ithaca police officer is expected to recover after being bitten by a dog Wednesday while officers were standing by during the clearing of an unauthorized camping area on the city's south side.
The Ithaca Police Department said officers were in the area July 1 as people were breaking down and vacating the campsite.
Police said one person at the scene had several dogs, and one of the dogs began acting aggressively. The dog appeared to be attacking the other dogs and its owner, who was yelling for help, according to police.
As an officer approached to assist, the dog charged and bit the officer, police said. Officers deployed a Taser and pepper spray.
The officer was taken to an area hospital and is expected to recover.
Animal Control responded and took all of the dogs into custody, according to police.
Anyone with information about the incident can contact Ithaca police dispatch at 607-272-3245, police administration at 607-272-9973 or the police tipline at 607-330-0000. Anonymous tips can also be submitted at www.cityofithaca.org/ipdtips.
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