Rep. Lawson-Rowe Reacts to Sentencing in Dog Mauling Trial That Inspired Avery's Law

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Meredith Lawson-Rowe (D-Reynoldsburg) this week attended the sentencing of Stephanie Ayers, the owner of two dogs that viciously mauled 12-year-old Reynoldsburg resident Avery Russell during a playdate last summer.

“Ms. Ayers’ sentencing only emphasizes the need for Avery’s Law,” said Rep. Lawson-Rowe. “Ms. Ayers received a slap on the wrist for her role in an event that left Avery with lifelong scars.”

Ayers was found guilty in July of failing to confine her dogs and received a 30-day sentence, the maximum allowed under Ohio law, of which 26 days were suspended, meaning Ayers will spend just four days in jail. Along with jail time, Ayers was ordered to pay $450 in fines, plus court fees, and will be on community control for the next three years. Restrictions to her owning other animals will be imposed during this time.

Russell’s attack was the impetus behind House Bill 247, known as “Avery’s Law”, which would increase the penalties for dog owners who knowingly cause or fail to reasonably prevent their dogs from attacking, trigger euthanasia for dogs who kill or seriously injure someone, and make owners of dangerous dogs obtain $100K in liability insurance, among other provisions.

Avery’s Law was passed unanimously by the House of Representatives in June and is now in the Senate awaiting further consideration. Learn more about Avery’s Law here.