Reynoldsburg Proposes Stricter Dog Attack Legislation After a 12-year-old girl was Attacked last summer.
Reynoldsburg proposes stricter dog attack legislation in response to a devastating 2023 dog mauling incident involving 12-year-old Avery Russell. The proposed bill, known as Avery’s Law, would tighten city rules and increase penalties for dog owners whose pets attack people or other animals.
The legislation was introduced at a recent city council meeting by Assistant City Prosecutor America Andrade, with Avery and her family in attendance. Avery sustained severe injuries in the attack, losing one ear and part of the other, and spending time in a coma. Her recovery has included five surgeries and extensive therapy.
“Her injuries and what she’s endured call for stronger legal consequences,” Andrade said.
Key Provisions of Avery’s Law:
- Upgrades dog attack charges to a first-degree misdemeanor, with a max penalty of 6 months in jail and higher fines
- Mandatory bite reporting by veterinarians and dog owners
- Liability insurance requirement for owners of designated dangerous dogs
- A 3 to 5-year ban on owning dangerous dogs for those convicted
“We want this law to be a deterrent, not just a punishment,” Andrade noted.
Avery’s Journey of Recovery and Advocacy
Despite her physical and emotional scars, Avery is back in school and playing basketball. She says her friends and family have helped her see her own strength.
“It was hard to look in the mirror,” she said. “But now, I think I’m beautiful—and I always have been.”
Her story has also sparked statewide attention. Ohio Rep. Meredith Lawson-Rowe is backing a similar state-level initiative that aims to redefine “dangerous dogs” and increase accountability for pet owners.
“We’ve identified legal gaps. It’s time to close them,” Rep. Lawson-Rowe said.
City Council Hopes to Pass the Law by Summer
The proposed legislation is expected to be finalized and voted on by early summer. For Avery and her family, this moment marks both healing and hope.
“This won’t undo what happened,” said Avery’s mother, Drew, “but it might stop another family from going through the same pain.”
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