Collinsville homeowners respond to lawsuit over their dog

Collinsville homeowners who are being sued after their dog allegedly bit their mail carrier have filed an answer to the lawsuit.

Tina Line, a United States Postal Service carrier, claims a dog attacked her as she attempted to perform her job duties, causing her to endure scarring and disfigurement.

She filed a lawsuit Oct. 4 in Madison County Circuit Court against David and Maureen Bell.

The Bells deny Line is entitled to judgment “in any sum whatsoever,” according to their answer. They also demanded a trial by jury.

In her complaint, Line claims she was delivering mail to the Bells’ home in Collinsville on April 10, when their chocolate Labrador Retriever scratched and bit her.

She blames the Bells for allowing their dog to attack her.

Line seeks a judgment of more than $50,000.

John Smith of Callis, Papa, Hale and Szewczyk in Granite City represents Line.

Attorneys at Brassfield, Krueger & Ramlow represent the defendants.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 12-L-1589.