CLEARWATER — A St. Petersburg parent is suing a neighbor, alleging strict liability in a dog attack on the plaintiff's son.
Joseph Lanfranchi, as natural father and guardian of Michael Lanfranchi, filed a complaint May 29 in Pinellas Circuit Court against Damian Romero, alleging failure to provide a safe environment.
According to the complaint, on Oct. 31, 2017, Michael Lanfranchi, a minor child was on Romero's premises, 10858 Shawnee Road, St. Petersburg, for the purpose of trick or treating. The suit says Romero's pit bulldog exited the house and suddenly bit the child in the face causing severe fractures, broken teeth, punctures, lacerations and other injuries, including future pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.
The plaintiff alleges Romero failed to warn Lanfranchi of the vicious nature of the dog, failed to keep and control his dog, and failed to take adequate safety measures and precautions.
Joseph Lanfranchi seeks trial by jury, general damages of more than $15,000, plus interest, court costs and all other relief the court deems just. He is represented by attorney Theodore Berman of The Law Offices of Berman & Berman PA in Boca Raton.
Pinellas County Circuit Court case number 18-CA-3518