Survivor testimony, prosecutors and dog wardens urge stiffer penalties in ‘Avery’s Law’ hearings

Seventh‑grader Avery Russell testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee about being mauled by two XL American Bully pit‑type dogs, describing the attack, prolonged recovery and ongoing surgeries as she urged passage of House Bill 247, commonly called Avery’s Law.

The bill would change Ohio’s approach to dangerous and vicious dogs, replacing the so‑called “one free bite” rule and expanding tools for dog wardens and prosecutors to impound animals, seek court designations and pursue larger penalties for owners whose dogs cause serious injury or death.

Avery Russell recounted the attack’s aftermath and medical treatment: “I was in excruciating pain, unable to move, and I just kept thinking, I want my mom,” she told the committee. She said she has undergone multiple surgeries — “I’ve had six surgeries. Number seven is coming in December” — and said the law would help prevent other children from suffering similar harm.

Her mother, Drew Russell, told the committee the criminal sentence the dog owner received after the attack left the family frustrated. “She got four days in jail…three years’ probation, but she got to keep one of her violent dogs,” Drew Russell said. “I was truly disgusted with the system.”

Local officials and animal‑control leaders testified in support of the bill. Licking County Commissioner Tim Bubb, past president of the County Commissioners Association of Ohio, said HB 247 updates statutes governing nuisance, dangerous…