In a gripping case that underscores the importance of community safety and responsible pet ownership, two women have filed a lawsuit against a homeowners association and several residents following a dog attack. The complaint was lodged by Roxanne Roy and Elizabeth Hill in the Harris County District Court on May 29, 2024, targeting Towne Lake Community Association, Inc., along with Mae Henri (a.k.a. Henri Courtney), Johnnie L. Courtney, and Kelley D. Courtney.
The plaintiffs allege that on April 9, 2024, they were viciously attacked by a dog owned by the defendants while walking near N. Coral Honeysuckle Loop in Cypress, Texas. According to the complaint, both women were legally present in the community—Roy as an invitee and Hill as a resident—when they encountered the aggressive animal. The plaintiffs assert that despite knowing about the dog's dangerous tendencies from previous incidents, the defendants failed to take appropriate measures to restrain or remove it from the neighborhood.
The lawsuit outlines multiple causes of action including negligence and gross negligence against all defendants. Specifically, it accuses Mae Henri (a.k.a. Henri Courtney), Johnnie L. Courtney, and Kelley D. Courtney of failing to properly restrain their dog, thereby violating Texas Health & Safety Code §822.005 and §822.044 which mandate strict control over known dangerous dogs. "Defendants had actual knowledge of the dog's aggressive behavior but chose to ignore it," reads one part of the petition.
Additionally, Towne Lake Community Association is accused of gross negligence for not enforcing its own rules regarding dangerous animals within its jurisdiction. The plaintiffs argue that despite being aware of prior attacks by this particular dog, the association did nothing to mitigate the risk it posed to residents and visitors alike.
The plaintiffs are seeking monetary relief exceeding $1 million for physical pain, mental anguish, medical expenses, scarring and disfigurement, physical impairment, lost wages, and other related damages incurred due to the attack. They also seek exemplary or punitive damages given what they describe as gross negligence on part of all defendants involved.
Representing Roy and Hill is attorney Paul H. Cannon from Simmons & Fletcher law firm based in Houston. The case has been assigned Case ID 2024-33890 and will be presided over by judges at Harris County's 55th Judicial District Court.