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Hinds County residents who own pit bulls, hybrid wolf dogs and exotic animals must obtain a permit from the sheriff’s department and hold insurance under changes approved to the animal control ordinance.

The Clarion-Ledger reports the Hinds County supervisors voted 4-0 for the changes.

If the owner does not meet the requirements and the animal attacks someone or is deemed vicious, the owner will be penalized. Penalties range from a $1,000 fine and 60 days in jail for a first offense to a $3,000 fine and 120 days in jail for a third or subsequent offense.

The amended ordinance will go into effect in July.

Officials say changes to the animal ordinance was stirred by the Feb. 12 mauling death of 5-year-old Anataisa Bingham in Terry.

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Mississippi