A trial has been set for March 25 in Warren County Justice Court for a UPS driver facing a misdemeanor animal injury charge.

The case has attracted media and public interest, largely due to home security camera video showing the driver striking a guard dog with a long, rod-like object while delivering a package to a Stenson Road residence.

Opinions vary sharply on whether the owner is to blame or whether the driver was acting in self-defense against the dog.

An initial appearance scheduled today was waived, according to court records. Southern District Justice Court Judge Joe Crevitt is to hear the case.

The video appears to show the driver striking the dog once near the top of the head before dropping the package close to the front door. Small portions of the video were made available to Jackson television stations, but Storey declined further dissemination of the video on advice from his lawyers. Storey has not ruled out a civil suit against the driver, regardless of the outcome in justice court. Storey said he has an attorney for such a case.

The driver posted $500 bond. Animal injury is part of the state statute on animal cruelty and carries a maximum penalty of six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

UPS officials have said drivers are advised they can defend themselves against animals they perceive as threats, but carrying sticks is not condoned.

Also, the worldwide parcel delivery giant does not supply its drivers with weapons. Instead, a company spokesman said, diversions such as dog biscuits are allowed to deter dogs from harming delivery drivers.

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Contact Danny Barrett Jr. at dbarrett@vicksburgpost.com.