Parents of child allegedly injured in pit bull attack at birthday party sue

GRETNA – The parents of a child who was allegedly injured in an attack by a pit bull at a birthday party are suing the dog’s owner.

Hilton Banks and Connie West, both individually and on behalf of their minor child, filed suit against Igor Castillo, Denise Thompson, Tankisha Wilkerson and their insurer in the 24th Judicial District Court on Oct. 24.

Banks and West assert that on July 26, 2014 they were attending a birthday party with their child held at a home owned by Thompson located and Castillo. The plaintiffs claim that while at the party a pit bull attacked their child causing serious injuries including permanent scarring and disfigurement. Banks and West allege after the attack the pit bull was euthanized by Jefferson Parish Animal Control.

The plaintiffs contend the dog’s owners are responsible for the dog’s dangerous actions and should have taken steps to protect visitors from attack.

The defendant is accused of negligence.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for physical pain and suffering, medical expenses, permanent scarring, disfigurement, mental anguish, emotional trauma and anxiety.

Banks and West are represented by John W. Redmann of Gretna-based Law Office of John W. Redmann LLC.

The case has been assigned to Division C Judge June Berry Darensburg.

Case no. 743-674.