neighbors...enough said!

So, last week I took Rocko out front to do his business. He doesn't like to go potty in the backyard because there is a BIG-LOUD dog next door that he is scared of. Well, Rocko is doing his business and I am minding mine and a neighbor from across the street comes over in hysterics. Even though I have lived in this house basically since I was nine, I do not know her all that well. She proceeded to tell me about the renters next door to me. She was furious. I am already unhappy that they park one of their many random cars/trucks/vans in the front yard--what else could be so bad?

Apparently, the day before their lovely pit bull (can you hear the sarcasm in my voice?) got out of the backyard and took off down the street where children were playing and riding bikes. The owner takes off after the dog screaming to the kids "STOP-FREEZE, HE WILL BITE!" At this point, all I can think is that could have been Rocko and I in the front yard and we could have been his first target. SCARY! Needless to say, all of the surrounding neighbors are up in arms and pretty furious about the dangerous dog--that will bite!

Many words have been exchanged from this neighbor to others..lots of not so pretty words. The cops have even been called because of some threats. Everyone wonders if the person who owns the house is aware that a pit bull is living there. I am scared to take Rocko to the potty or to check my mail.

Today, Mr pit bull neighbor left a letter/flyer on all the mailboxes explaining their situation. He apologized for the dog getting out, as it was his fault. He also showed a picture and described the pen/enclosure he built to keep the dog in. Mr pit bull said he is a loving-friendly dog who has never bitten anyone before.

Now I am just plain confused... stumped really.

Any thoughts?

I know the breed is stereotyped a lot, just don't know what to think.