ARCADIA, La. – The Bienville Parish Police Jury’s attempt to remove itself from separate lawsuits stemming from two dog mauling incidents – one of which resulted in a death -- has failed.

The 2 nd Circuit Court of Appeal, in decisions released Wednesday, reversed Bienville District Court rulings that released the parish governing body as a defendant in the lawsuits. Both cases are sent back to the trial court for further proceedings.

One of the lawsuits was filed by Da’Vyta Gray against the town of Ringgold, Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office and Bienville Police Jury. Gray was attacked and mauled by dogs on Sept. 27, 2023 as he walked on Pine Street. He survived despite 130 bites to his body that led to five surgeries to save his life and limbs.

The second was filed by Trey Brooks, Tr

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