A Homestead dog owner will face charges in connection with the mauling of a 7-year-old girl this month, according to police.

Kelly Gasch's pit bull attacked Jenna Dunn on March 19. The girl was visiting Ms. Gasch's house on East 17th Avenue to see the dog's new puppies when she was attacked. Forty stitches were required for injuries to the girl's face, arm and hand.

Charges against Ms. Gasch include reckless endangerment of a child, harboring a dangerous animal and dog licensing violations, Chief Jeff DeSimone said.

The criminal complaint against Ms. Gasch was delivered to District Judge Thomas Torkowsky yesterday.

Police still don't know what will happen to the dog.

Chief DeSimone said Ms. Gasch was involved in a past incident where a different neighbor killed a dog of hers to prevent it from attacking.