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Avera & Smith, LLP Chosen to Represent Victim of Brutal Dog Attack

Roy McSweeney, Sr. Critically Injured by Dogs Responsible in Previous Attacks

June 14, 2011– Gainesville, Florida – Avera & Smith, LLP has been retained to represent Roy McSweeney, Sr., who was attacked by two pit bulls belonging to a neighbor on Friday, June 10, 2011. Mr. McSweeney, 74, was working in the yard of the home he rents in Putnam County when the dogs attacked him.

The same dogs attacked Avera & Smith client, Robert Floyd, in January, 2010, when he was performing caretaking duties at the house now occupied by Mr. and Mrs. McSweeney. Mr. Floyd received serious injury to his face and was treated at Shands Hospital. Avera & Smith Attorney, Jennifer Biewend, has filed suit on behalf of Robert and Debra Floyd, which is now in litigation in Putnam County.

After the attack on Floyd last year, the two pit bull mix dogs, believed to be owned by Deanna Blitch and Beau Scurrey, were seized by Putnam County Animal Control but were subsequently released back to the care of their owners after the attack. They are alleged to have been involved in other incidents in the neighborhood, as well. They were euthanized after the attack on Mr. McSweeney.

“The family is devastated by this senseless attack on Mr. McSweeney,” said Biewend. “Even though the dogs were clearly very dangerous, it appears that nothing was done by the authorities or by the owners to prevent them from attacking again.”

Mr. McSweeney was taken by ambulance to Shands Hospital where he is being treated for devastating, life threatening injuries to his arms, head and face. Mr. and Mrs. McSweeney have requested all future media calls regarding the attack be directed to Avera & Smith. The firm will publish updates on Mr. McSweeney’s condition and case as appropriate.

About Avera & Smith LLP

Avera & Smith LLP has represented Floridians for over 50 years. Headquartered in Gainesville, Florida, the firm specializes in personal injury and workers compensation law, as well as providing a variety of other legal services for plaintiffs such as criminal defense, business litigation and medical malpractice.

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Avera & Smith LLP
2814 S.W. 13th St.
Gainesville, FL 32608
352-317-6295

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