This week, criminal charges were filed against the owner of three pit bulls that attacked and fatally mauled a toddler.

The owner, 52 year old Steve Hayashi, has been charged with felony child endangerment and allowing a vicious animal to be at large.  Hayashi was charged after 2 year old Jacob Bisbee (Hayashi's step-grandson) was subjected to lethal dog bites.

Police say that the dog attack took place last week Thursday at 8:45 PM at the family's home.  Jacob had been at home with his grandmother, his uncle and 4 year old brother when he walked into the garage and was attacked by the three pit bulls.

While interviewed in a jailhouse, Hayashi said that the door to the garage is usually locked with a deadbolt that Jacob could not reach.  He said the toddler never went to the garage before, but he somehow managed to get in.

Hayashi told police, "By the time my wife found him, the dogs had already finished their attack. It was too late."  Jacob was rushed to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

If you have been a dog bite victim, discuss your case with a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer by contacting the Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus.