Richmond Board of Works finds dog "Moe" vicious, allows 7 days for compliance and continues hearing

The Richmond City Board of Works and Safety on March 19 voted that a dog named Moe be deemed vicious under Richmond City Code 91.15 after police and animal-control testimony about a severe October 10, 2025 bite that left the victim with significant facial injuries.

Aaron Stevens, administrative resource officer for the Richmond Police Department, presented reports from responding officers and said the victim, identified as Anne Mowell, suffered considerable facial injuries that required hospital care and reconstructive surgery. Animal control officer Desiree Durbin testified she compiled a vicious‑dog packet and recommended the matter proceed to the board after reviewing officer reports and the victim’s condition. "This is one of, if not, the worst dog bite I have dealt with in my career," Durbin said.

Owner Andrew Mowell disputed that the attack was unprovoked and said Moe was a rescue with limited prior incidents. "It was an act in defense, not a unprovoked act of aggression," Mowell said, asking the board not to order euthanasia. Board members questioned the owner about prior incidents, quarantine, vaccinations and containment. RPD and animal control confirmed Moe was not current on city-required vaccinations at the time of the incident.

Counsel explained the two-step process under Code 91.15: a first vote on whether the dog meets the code’s elements for a vicious determination, which triggers automatic compliance requirements, and a later second-stage determination that can impose impoundment or euthanasia. The board voted in favor of the first finding that Moe met the vicious‑dog standard, which starts the city's automatic requirements (including confinement, signage, a yellow collar and insurance where applicable) and gives the owner a time-limited opportunity to comply.

Durbin will inspect the owner’s property within the 7‑day compliance window and report back with photographic documentation of which requirements are met. The board scheduled a continued hearing for March 26, 2026 to review animal-control’s findings and determine whether further action, including impoundment or euthanasia, is necessary. Counsel and board members noted the owner retains the right to appeal the board’s findings under the code.