Mail carrier takes dog bite to trial

This week, the letter carrier will bite back, as jury selection has begun in a case brought by a mailwoman who was allegedly bit while making a delivery. 

As previously reported, Kelly Tillerson, a U.S. Postal Service worker, filed suit against Jille Matte Tucker and Melissa Benedictis on Oct. 5, 2010, in Jefferson County District Court.

Jury selection in the case began Monday, Dec. 3. The trial is expected to last for three days.

In her suit, Tillerson claims that in 2009 she was attacked by dogs as she delivered mail on 21st Street in Beaumont.

Justin Graves and Winey Robbins were added as defendants, since they owned the pit bull that bit Tillerson.

Tucker is the owner of the home. Benedictis was staying at the home, court records show. Tucker was later dropped from the suit.

Tillerson accuses the defendants of negligence, alleging they failed to keep a proper lookout for her safety, failed to maintain control of the dog, failed to exercise ordinary care and failed to keep a proper distance from her.

Tillerson is seeking damages for her experienced physical pain, suffering and mental anguish and lost earnings, according to the complaint filed In addition, she incurred medical costs and suffered physical impairment and disfigurement, the suit states.

Anthony Malley III of Moore Landrey in Beaumont represents her.

Judge Bob Wortham, 58th District Court, is presiding over the case.

Case No. A188-532