Tragic Dog Attack Leaves Elderly Man Critically Injured in Alabama
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An 81-year-old man, Jamie Boyd, is in critical condition after a horrific attack by seven dogs in Birmingham, Alabama. The incident occurred in September while Mr Boyd was walking to his mailbox, with his wife witnessing the terrifying ordeal. The owners of the dogs, who are neighbours to the victim, have since been charged under Alabama's Dangerous Dog Procedure Act, known as Emily's Law.
Key Takeaways
- An 81-year-old man suffered severe injuries, including a significant portion of his scalp being torn off, after being attacked by seven dogs.
- The dog owners, who are neighbours of the victim, have been charged under Emily's Law, with allegations of prior knowledge of the dogs' dangerous nature.
- The victim's family has filed a civil lawsuit and is seeking prayers for his recovery, which may include amputations.
- The victim's lawyer is calling for a review of Emily's Law, advocating for harsher penalties for owners of dangerous dogs.
The Attack and Its Aftermath
Jamie Boyd was reportedly attacked by a group of pit bulls and pit bull crosses. His wife attempted to intervene despite using an assisted walking device. The severity of Mr Boyd's injuries is extensive, with his scalp reportedly ripped from his head, resulting in a 50 per cent loss of muscle tissue. He is currently facing potential amputations of his arm and possibly his leg due to an uncontrollable infection.
Legal Proceedings and Civil Lawsuit
William and Lacey Mitchell, the owners of the dogs and neighbours to Mr Boyd, have been charged under Emily's Law. Police allege they had prior knowledge that their dogs were dangerous. Both have pleaded not guilty to the charges. The Boyd family has also initiated a civil lawsuit against the Mitchells, aiming to hold them responsible for the harm caused to Mr Boyd.
Calls for Legal Reform
Paul Patterson, Mr Boyd's lawyer, described the incident as one of the most tragic dog mauling attacks he has encountered. He expressed concern over the current punitive measures within Emily's Law, suggesting that the penalties are not severe enough, particularly when a court has not previously declared a dog vicious. Mr Patterson is urging the Legislature to re-examine the law to implement harsher consequences for owners who exhibit a reckless disregard for public safety.
The seven dogs involved in the attack have been taken to the Bibb County Animal Facility, though no further information is available regarding their fate.