Politics & Government

Mother Files Lawsuit Against County Over Animal Control Dog Bite

Shannen Flores is seeking damages after her son was severely injured by a bull mastif in July.

According to Kendall County court documents, Shannen Flores of Oswego filed suit against the county Feb. 7, saying staff was negligent in controlling Moose—the bull mastiff that bit her then 6-year-old son, Gavin, in the face July 3 at the Animal Control facility in Yorkville.

The next court date listed on the suit is May 7.

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Moose's troubles began May 31 when he bit mail carrier Patrick Sondgeroth in Boulder Hill. Sondgeroth required 15 stitches to repair the damage to his arm. 

After that incident, Moose was taken to Animal Control where he remained until July 3 when Gavin was visiting the shelter with his father David Lee, who was completing court-ordered community service. The dog bit Gavin in the face as he pet him, and the boy was rushed to the hospital. Gavin underwent several medical procedures to repair damage caused by the attack.

Find out what's happening in Oswegowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Shortly after the attack, former Animal Control Warden Christine Johnson told county officials Moose had been euthanized when in fact he had been adopted to a family in Lake Holiday. Johnson resigned after it was revealed she had lied about the dog being destroyed.

Since the incident, Animal Control policies have changed and volunteers under the age of 18 are not allowed as well as court-ordered community service workers.

The county since has hired a new warden. Anna Payton, of Plainfield, worked for three years at the DuPage County Animal Care & Control, taught animal science classes at the University of Illinois and has volunteered with multiple animal rescues and similar organizations. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois.


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