The Region - News from Aug. 16, 1987

A judge in Indio granted a reprieve to Cody, a pit bull terrier facing a death sentence for attacking a 9-year-old girl. Superior Court Judge Fred Metheny, who began proceedings by saying he loves dogs, also ordered Cody released in the custody of Yucca Valley rancher Frances Gray, who said she will adopt the 1 1/2-year-old animal as part of the legal settlement saving the dog’s life. The judge also specified that Cody must be neutered, given obedience training and kept within a fenced area. Cody’s former owner, Doug Yanez, turned the dog over to the city July 23 after it bit his daughter, Angelina, on the face. The girl’s injuries required her to be hospitalized for four days. Gray said she is convinced Cody was not vicious by nature and was a victim of recent pit bull hysteria she said has been generated by the media.