answer
i generally deny the allegations.
specifically, i deny being the owner of the dog chico at the time of the incident. the dog may belong to Dawn Young, Rocco, or Tupac.
I admit to having custody of the dog on the date in question.
I am willing to become the owner of the dog if the court makes that determination.
If the dog is falsely convicted of this offense he will be uninsurable, and may end up being euthenized.
the allegations are quasi criminal, requiring clear and convincing evidence. Blache v Lao, __ U. S._ (2026)
the attack, if it happened, was provoked.
On the previous day to the incident, Devin threatened me with a gun in a dispute. He claimed I owed him $100 for a previous attack by Chico, prior to my having guardianship of Chico. He has face tattoos indicating prison. I suspect he is a felon in possession.
I did not witness the attack, if there was one. From what I have heard, it occurred within the curtilage of the home, the area a dog such as Chico is territorial about. He was within earshot of the previous day's discussion, and knew that Devin was a threat to me and was unwelcome. I have heard Devin taunt and curse at the animal at other times.
the ordiance is qiite specific about applying only to unprovoked attacks.
The state canot prove by clear and convincing evidence that the attack was unprovoked, when the dog was protecting its caretaker and its property from a violent criminal.
this action is part of his extortion scheme.
it is unclear to what extent he has coordinated his scheme with the city attorney, ms hulsey, but her role in this conspiracy is unethical, and we encourage the court to review it as a neutral magistrate, and make a referral to the indiana attorney disciplinary commission if it meets the standards of a "must report" violation rather than a "may report" violation.
counterclaims:
if i or chico end up as the prevailing party here, i move for costs and fees.