A pool cleaner is suing the city after being attacked by a dog.
The incident left them permanently disfigured. Ryleigh Reeana Elia is suing Ventura County, California. The city is responsible for both the Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) and All For Love Animal Rescue. She accused the city of allowing a dog with a violent past to be put up for adoption.
The dog attacked her when she went to clean a pool at a person's home. It caused "great physical pain, mental anguish and loss of enjoyment of life." According to Moorpark Acorn, she's now suing. The pool cleaner alleged "texted the homeowner to ensure the dog was secured." However, the dog got out back to where the pool was and attacked her.
Pool Cleaner Sues City
"Ms. Elia, with all her might, was able to get to her feet. And tried to run away," the filing reads. "However, the dog, still unrestrained, proceeded after her and bit her again, attacking her a second time."
"From the day he arrived, Animal Services officers and employees had concerns about Togo's behavior," the document reads. According to the lawsuit, the dog had bit a delivery driver in 2021 and then a 64-year-old in 2024, making for a pattern of violence.
"VCAS had prior notice that Togo was dangerous to the public and failed to take appropriate steps to protect the public as required by the mandatory duties imposed by the County of Ventura Municipal Code and VCAS's policies and procedures," the lawsuit claims.
