Mohamad A. Akbik has filed a lawsuit against his neighbors following a traumatic incident involving their pet. On January 15, 2025, Akbik submitted the complaint to the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, accusing John Lindsey and Cristin S. Lindsey of negligence after their pit bull attacked his minor son, Mohamad J. Akbik.
The unfortunate event took place on February 19, 2024, when the defendants' daughter invited young Mohamad to play at their home in Seminole, Florida. According to the complaint, while under the supervision of Cristin Lindsey, who was aware that children were playing at her house, the family's pit bull bit Mohamad J. Akbik in the face. The attack resulted in significant physical injuries and emotional trauma for the child. The plaintiff alleges that due to this incident, his son has suffered from pain and suffering, scarring, severe emotional distress and trauma, medical expenses, loss of ability to do schoolwork, and diminished capacity for enjoying life.
In response to this attack, law enforcement and Pinellas County Animal Services were notified. Subsequently, the pit bull was declared "dangerous" by county authorities. The legal basis for this case is grounded in Florida Statute § 767.04 which holds dog owners strictly liable for damages caused by their pets if they bite someone on public or private property where they are lawfully present.
The plaintiff seeks compensatory damages exceeding $50,000 exclusive of costs and interest from both defendants under strict liability laws applicable to dog bites in Florida. Additionally, Count II of the complaint specifically targets Cristin S. Lindsey with allegations of negligence for failing to prevent her dog from attacking a guest on her property.
The lawsuit demands a trial by jury and seeks judgment for compensatory damages covering all medical expenses incurred due to the injuries sustained during this incident as well as other associated costs such as attorney fees and interest payments related to bringing forth this litigation.
Representing Mohamad A. Akbik is an attorney based out of Clearwater, Florida. The Case ID is: 502025CA000410XXXAMB.