Nassau Bay man accused of using pit bull as weapon

Two Nassau Bay residents suffered multiple dog bites after the owner of a pit bull allegedly had his dog attack them at the Balboa apartment complex Monday (Jan. 9).

Nassau Bay Police Chief Joe Cashiola said Eric Dowlen, 33, was having an argument with the two male victims, 16 and 21 years old, before he intentionally released the dog on them. All of the persons involved live at Balboa Apartments in 2000 block of San Sebastian Court.

The two victims were transported to Christus St. John Hospital to be treated for multiple bites to the legs and arms. The injuries were not life-threatening and both victims were released, Cashiola said.

Dowlen was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a second-degree felony. He was taken to Harris County Jail and is out on $30,000 bail. If convicted, Dowlen faces two to 20 years in prison and an up to $10,000 fine.

Nassau Bay Animal Control took custody of the dog and put it in quarantine.