Kristin Perkins is flanked by Washoe Tribe Police Sgt. Brad Harris and Washoe Tribe Police Chief Casey Ryan on Feb. 21.
A former Washoe Tribe Police Officer was honored for helping to fend off pit bulls that were attacking a man with a baseball bat on Feb. 2.
Kristin Perkins risked her own life when she responded to cries for help and brought a baseball bat to help drive the dogs away from Anthony Smokey.
Police Chief Casey Ryan publicly thanked Perkins at the Feb. 21 Washoe Tribal Council meeting, saying her intervention likely saved Smokey’s life.
Smokey was checking on his elderly brother when he was set upon by four pit bulls. He sustained injuries that required immediate medical attention.
Perkins, responding to the cry for help, arrived on the scene, and intervened, placing herself between Smokey and the attacking dogs.
He was transported to Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno for treatment, where he is recovering and will return home soon.
Ryan praised Perkins’ selfless act, emphasizing the danger she faced. “In my opinion, Officer Perkins saved his life.”
The Dresslerville community and the family of the victim have also expressed their profound gratitude to Perkins.
“We’re so grateful for Kristin’s bravery and thankful to have her in our tribe. She’s a true hero,” said one Dresslerville resident. Residents have lauded her heroism, recognizing the profound impact her actions had on their community.
“This incident has served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community and looking out for one another,” according to the Tribe.
According to a GoFundMe account established for Smokey, he is in a long-term acute care facility where he can focus on his medical needs as well as therapeutic care.
He has undergone several procedures to fight infection.
The fundraiser is 87 percent of the way toward its $26,000 goal.