2 Dogs Owned by Councilwoman Attack Child, Dog

Everyone is responsible for the behavior of their dogs. Even local celebrities who work in politics need to ensure their dogs are under control and do not harm others.

A Florida city councilwoman is under scrutiny after her two dogs recently attacked a child and another dog. The dog bite happened on December 7 in Marco Island. Police were dispatched to Columbus Way and discovered a 13-year-old with a bite wound. There was also a Goldendoodle who had also sustained an injury to its front leg due to the attack.

The incident happened as the child was walking with their mother and the Goldendoodle. That was when the councilwoman’s two dogs crossed the street and attacked the child and dog. The dogs were described as two terriers. Police identified the dogs and found their owner, local councilwoman Tamara Goehler.

While police officers were getting a statement from the child’s mother inside her house, Goehler barged into the home. She immediately went over to the victim and grabbed her to examine the wound.

Goehler told police that her dogs never bite anyone and that the marks were not bites but scratches. She then reportedly demanded to see the report. That was when the homeowners asked her to leave.

The officers promptly led her back outside, but that angered Goehler. She asked the police if “they knew who she was” and threatened to call the police chief. Police admitted they did not know who she was. She then entered the house again to examine the child’s wound.

While the mother was completing the statement, her husband held the Goldendoodle in his lap to alleviate the pressure on its leg. Goehler demanded to be let into the home so she could get video of the dog standing.

The mother told the councilwoman she was not allowed in the house and that she would talk to her outside later. The parents of the child completed their statements and initially said they wanted to file an official complaint against Goehler with city council. However, the couple later said they did not want to press charges.

However, the victim’s mother did go to the Marco Island City Council meeting a few days later to let the city council members know about the dog attack. She called Goehler arrogant and said the incident was an abuse of power.

Officers filed a form with Collier County Domestic Animal Services along with a photo of the injury and the animal bite. The injured Goldendoodle was taken to an emergency vet for medical treatment. It is unknown if the councilwoman will face any punishment for the dog attack.

Contact Us Today

Dog owners need to ensure their pets do not harm others. Regardless of who you are, you get no free passes under Florida’s strict liability law.

A dog bite injury can be scary. A Bradenton dog bite lawyer from Cahall Law Firm can help you understand liability and ensure you get compensation for all your damages. Schedule a consultation to learn more. Call (941) 281-2019 or fill out the online form.

Source:

wfla.com/news/florida/florida-councilwoman-faces-backlash-after-dog-bite-incident/