MOUNDSVILLE – A former state Senate president has filed a lawsuit on behalf of his son after the boy was attacked by a dog.
Jeff Kessler filed his complaint on behalf of Hastings J. Kessler in Marshall Circuit Court against Brian and Janet Keller.
According to the complaint, Hastings was visiting a friend June 11, 2019, when the Kellers’ dog ran toward him. The complaint says the dog, which is believed to be a Doberman, was not restrained, secured or muzzled. Hastings was 11 years old at the time.
It also says the “dangerous and vicious” dog was running “at large” as it approached the boy and attacked him. It says the boy was not trespassing nor was he teasing or tormenting the dog.
Hastings sustained serious injuries to his back, left shoulder and armpit from the attack. He required numerous stitches and has permanent scarring.
“Although defendants were aware of the dog’s dangerous and vicious propensities, they failed to secure and leash the dog or bother to properly control or muzzle the dangerous animal, allowing the dog to run about the neighborhood,” the complaint states.
Kessler seeks compensatory damages for injuries, including medical bills, as well as pre- and post-judgment interest and court costs. He also seeks punitive damages, saying the actions of the defendants were willful, wanton and reckless.
Kessler, who is a partner at Berry Kessler Crutchfield Taylor and Gordon, is representing himself. He is a former state Senator who served as Senate President from 2012 to 2016, when he ran for governor.
The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge David Hummel.
Marshall Circuit Court case number 21-C-45
