A serious legal battle has unfolded in Harris County, Texas, where a plaintiff is seeking justice after suffering injuries allegedly caused by the defendant's negligence. Janelle Wash filed a complaint against Patrick Stephen Myers on April 17, 2025, in the District Court of Harris County. The case highlights concerns over safety and responsibility, raising questions about the obligations of property owners to protect individuals from harm.
The lawsuit stems from an incident that occurred on September 23, 2023. On that day, Janelle Wash was delivering mail as part of her routine duties when she arrived at a property owned or controlled by Patrick Stephen Myers. According to the complaint, Wash was chased by two unrestrained dogs owned by Myers. This encounter resulted in serious injuries for Wash. The plaintiff claims that Myers knew or should have known about the dangerous nature of his dogs and failed to take reasonable steps to restrain them. As stated in the petition, "Defendant knew or should have known that the dogs had dangerous propensities and failed to take reasonable steps to restrain or secure them."
Wash's legal team argues that Myers is strictly liable for her injuries due to his knowledge of the dogs' vicious tendencies. They further accuse him of negligent handling and premises liability, asserting that he breached his duty to ensure safety on his property. The complaint outlines several alleged failures on Myers' part, including not warning Wash about the presence and nature of the dogs and not taking adequate measures to prevent such incidents.
In terms of relief sought, Wash is asking for monetary compensation exceeding $250,000 but not more than $1 million for medical expenses, physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, physical impairment, disfigurement, and exemplary damages due to gross negligence. She also seeks pre-judgment and post-judgment interest on all accrued damages.
Representing Janelle Wash is attorney Joshua Leal from Kwok Daniel Ltd., LLP. The case has been assigned Case ID 2025-27039 and will be heard in the 334th Judicial District Court under Judge Yasmin Creag.