The German shepherd at the center of a debate on immigration after biting a Honduran landscaper was euthanized Wednesday for attacking an elderly family member.

Elizabeth and Guy James had Congo and three other dogs euthanized after the animals attacked 75-year-old Constance Ladd, Elizabeth's mother. Congo's euthanasia had been ordered more than a year ago for biting Giovanni Rivera 94 times, but the canine's life was spared as part of a plea deal in April.

The dogs jumped on Ladd as she was leaving the James' residence. Police say she received bite wounds on her forearm, chest and head.

The family disputes those claims and says Ladd only received a few cuts and hip injury. Guy James says the dog was put down because he couldn't put everyone through the same troubles.

"Knowing the statute and what would proceed from here, I could not put my family and my dogs in this position," says James. "It would be totally unfair. "

Animal activists united behind Congo after the initial ruling to put him down, flooding Gov. Jon Corzine's office with more than 10,000 letters of support. Rivera's immigration status also stirred debate. Rivera was awarded $250,000 in a settlement with the family.

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