Lise Vadnais told Radio-Canada Thursday that her family felt it had no other option after Crown prosecutors announced last fall they wouldn't press charges against Franklin Junior Frontal, the owner of the dog named Lucifer, in the death of her sister Christiane.
"He continues his life as if nothing happened while our family lives a horrible nightmare."
After the attack, police said Frontal could possibly be charged with criminal negligence.
But in November Crown prosecutors said after a rigorous analysis of the case there wasn't enough evidence to lay charges.
Vadnais said she doesn't understand that decision.
She said investigators told her that the dog, which Montreal police initially said was a pit bull, had already bitten Frontal's cousin and that since then Frontal had always made sure the dog wore a muzzle if there were visitors in the house.
 |
| Christiane Vadnais fought for her life - and lost - in her own backyard, a place you're supposed to feel safe. |
Frontal told police he left the dog inside the house that day and it's not clear how the dog was able to get outside.
 |
| They believe the pit bull entered through this hole. |
But Vadnais said neighbours told the family the dog was often left alone in the backyard.
"When you have to muzzle your dog each time someone visits the house but you leave it outside all day that doesn't make any sense," Vadnais said.
"For us it's clear, the owner was very aware his dog was dangerous."
The family has sent a lawyer's letter to Frontal advising him of their intention to launch a lawsuit, she said.
(CBC News - Jan 5, 2017)
