Resident describes repeated dog attacks; council commits to public safety committee review

Matthew Sewell told the Mobile City Council that over the past five years his neighbors’ large American bulldog attacked him five times off the neighbor’s property, and that he reported three of those incidents to animal control. Sewell said animal control documented only one incident, that two alleged citations were dropped, and that his court case resulted in a minimal $100 fine. He asked city officials to review animal‑control procedures and to pursue stronger laws for owners with a history of negligence.

Council members thanked Sewell for coming forward, expressed sympathy, and discussed documentation practices and enforcement constraints. Several council members advised residents to document incidents and to call the nonemergency police number when incidents occur outside business hours. Vice President Gregory, who chairs the council’s public safety committee, said he will schedule a committee meeting and invite the administration and relevant staff to discuss potential changes to enforcement, fines and processes.

Council did not adopt new ordinances at the meeting; members described the next step as a review through the public‑safety committee and follow‑up with administration staff.