Avery Deputy Bit By Dog On Alarm Call


 To underscore the daily dangers facing all law enforcement officers, deputy Tim Austin with the Avery County Sheriff’s Office was injured during an alarm call.  On May 22nd, Deputy Austin was attempting to find a residence in the Linville area from which a burglar alarm had been activated.  Deputy Austin approached one house in the area to seek direction and went on the deck and knocked.  Deputy Austin was attempting to locate the residence where the alarm was activated and was hoping neighbors could help him.  Just after he knocked, a large dog burst through the screen door and bit Deputy Austin on his upper arm, the canine teeth going through his bicep.  The owner of the house came running right behind the dog and ordered the dog to release and stay which it did immediately. After being bitten, Deputy Austin found out which house had the alarm and finished his call, afterward going to CannonHospital for treatment.  Deputy Austin was treated and released but due to an infection went back to the hospital for additional treatment.  He is recovered enough to assume his regular duties at this time.