A shocking incident involving a dog attack has led to a lawsuit that could result in significant financial consequences for the defendants. On January 17, 2025, Judy Lauro filed a complaint in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, against Eugene and Michelle DiBetta, as well as Renee Beese. The lawsuit arises from an alleged attack by the DiBettas' Great Dane dog on May 4, 2023.
According to the court documents, Judy Lauro claims she was viciously attacked by a Great Dane owned by Eugene and Michelle DiBetta while entering their property at 2462 Pinellas Point Drive South in St. Petersburg, Florida. At the time of the incident, Lauro was visiting to provide piano lessons and was considered an invitee on the premises. The complaint states that the dog had a known vicious nature and that it was negligently allowed to roam without restraint or control. This negligence allegedly resulted in Lauro sustaining severe injuries to her arm, wrist, and hand.
The lawsuit outlines multiple counts against the defendants. In Count I, Lauro asserts strict liability under Florida Statutes subsections 767.01 and 767.04 due to the aggressive conduct of the DiBettas' dog. She maintains that she did not provoke or aggravate the animal at any point. As a result of this attack, Lauro claims she suffered permanent injuries including loss of bodily function and significant scarring. The complaint also highlights emotional distress factors such as pain and suffering, humiliation, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Count II focuses on negligence by Eugene and Michelle DiBetta for failing to restrain their dog or take necessary precautions to prevent such attacks. It further accuses them of neglecting to post warnings about their dog's presence despite its known dangerous disposition.
In Count III, Renee Beese is implicated for her role as a nanny responsible for overseeing activities at another property associated with Lauro's residence. Beese is accused of failing to restrain or warn about the dangerous dog during her employment duties.
Judy Lauro seeks judgment for damages exceeding $50,000 exclusive of costs from all defendants involved in this case. She demands compensation for medical expenses incurred due to her injuries along with future treatment costs; additionally seeking reparation for lost earnings capacity caused by these lasting effects.
Representing Judy Lauro is attorney Joshalyn D. Shocklee from Shocklee Paolino PA law firm based out of St Petersburg FL., while presiding over this case is Judge Ken Burke under Case ID: 25-000221-CI.