The sixth floor of a prestigious Sutton Place co-op has become the center of a heated legal battle,as residents Anthony and Barbara Liberatore allege they were attacked by a neighbor’s dog,leading to a $2 million lawsuit. The couple claims that their neighbor, Bill Lawson, the board president of the co-op, and his wife Melissa have allowed their dog, Bodie, to roam freely in violation of building rules, resulting in two separate incidents of aggression.
In May 2021,Barbara Liberatore was walking from the elevator to her apartment when Bodie “bolted out of the Lawson Apartment (the front door was left ajar) and attacked Mrs.Liberatore,” according to court documents. The dog allegedly “pinned Mrs. Liberatore up against the front door . . . viciously attacked her and bit her on the right wrist and upper right thigh.” The injuries were severe enough to puncture her skin through two layers of clothing. Despite Barbara’s complaint to the management company, which promised to require the lawsons to muzzle Bodie, no action was taken.
The situation escalated in September when Bodie allegedly attacked Anthony Liberatore. While waiting for the elevator,Anthony heard the dogs and attempted to retreat to his apartment. However, “before Mr. Liberatore was able to open his front door, bodie — unleashed and unmuzzled — bolted,” pinning him against the door and biting his lower back, leaving him bloodied. The couple, who own three small senior dogs themselves, were so frightened that they fled to their weekend home on Long Island.
the Liberatores are now suing the Lawsons and the co-op for failing to enforce the building’s rules, particularly “against a shareholder who happens to be the Board President.” The lawsuit highlights the tension between residents and the board, as well as the challenges of enforcing pet policies in shared living spaces.
Key Points of the Lawsuit
Table of Contents
| Incident | Details |
|—————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| May 2021 Attack | Bodie attacked Barbara Liberatore, biting her wrist and thigh.|
| September 2021 Attack | Bodie attacked Anthony Liberatore, biting his lower back. |
| Building Rules Violated| Dogs must be leashed in common areas; Bodie was unleashed and unmuzzled. |
| **LegalBodie the Labradoodle: A Heartwarming Tale of Love and Loyalty
In a world where the bond between humans and their pets frequently enough transcends words, the story of Bodie, a 121⁄2-year-old Labradoodle, and his owner Melissa Lawson, stands out as a testament to unconditional love and companionship. captured in a touching photograph by the New York Post,Bodie is seen showering Melissa with affectionate kisses,a moment that encapsulates the deep connection they share.
Labradoodles, a crossbreed between Labrador Retrievers and Poodles, are known for their intelligence, hypoallergenic coats, and pleasant demeanor. Bodie, with his expressive eyes and gentle nature, embodies these traits perfectly. His story is a reminder of the joy and comfort that pets bring into our lives,especially during challenging times.
Melissa Lawson,Bodie’s devoted owner,has shared countless memories with her furry companion over the years. “Bodie has been my rock,” she says. “His love is pure, and he’s always there to lift my spirits.” This sentiment resonates with pet owners worldwide, who often describe their pets as family members rather than animals.
The photograph, taken in January 2025, has as gone viral, touching the hearts of thousands. It’s a snapshot of a bond that words can hardly describe—a bond built on trust, loyalty, and endless affection.
The Science Behind the Bond
Research has shown that the relationship between humans and their pets can have profound psychological and physical benefits. Studies indicate that interacting with dogs can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even improve mental health. For Melissa, Bodie has been a source of comfort and joy, proving that the love of a pet is truly unparalleled.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| breed | Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever and poodle mix) |
| Age | 121⁄2 years |
| Owner | Melissa Lawson |
| Notable Trait | Affectionate and loyal |
| impact | Emotional support and companionship |
Why Labradoodles Make Great Companions
labradoodles are not only intelligent and trainable but also highly adaptable, making them ideal for families, singles, and seniors alike. Their hypoallergenic coats are a bonus for those with allergies, and their playful yet gentle nature ensures they fit seamlessly into various lifestyles.
A Call to Action
If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, explore the benefits of adopting a Labradoodle or other breeds from reputable shelters or breeders. The love and companionship they offer are truly life-changing.
Bodie’s story is a heartwarming reminder of the incredible bond between humans and their pets. As Melissa Lawson puts it, “Bodie isn’t just a dog; he’s my best friend.”
For more inspiring stories about pets and their owners, visit the New York Post’s dedicated section on heartwarming pet tales.
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Image Source: New York Post=75&strip=all 231w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/01/sunday-news-melissa-mccue-lawson-96171177.jpg?resize=322,429&quality=75&strip=all 322w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/01/sunday-news-melissa-mccue-lawson-96171177.jpg?resize=300,400&quality=75&strip=all 300w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/01/sunday-news-melissa-mccue-lawson-96171177.jpg?resize=331,441&quality=75&strip=all 331w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/01/sunday-news-melissa-mccue-lawson-96171177.jpg?resize=45,60&quality=75&strip=all 45w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/01/sunday-news-melissa-mccue-lawson-96171177.jpg?resize=44,58&quality=75&strip=all 44w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/01/sunday-news-melissa-mccue-lawson-96171177.jpg?resize=117,156&quality=75&strip=all 117w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/01/sunday-news-melissa-mccue-lawson-96171177.jpg?resize=640,853&quality=75&strip=all 640w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/01/sunday-news-melissa-mccue-lawson-96171177.jpg?resize=38,50&quality=75&strip=all 38w” sizes=”(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px”/>
Lawson bristled at the accusations against 12-year-old Bodie.
“He’s never been off leash. There’s nobody in the building who can ever say he’s been off leash in the building, it’s just not true,” he told The Post.
While Lawson didn’t deny the bites, he said Barbara was crouched down petting another dog when Bodie ran out.
Bodie, who was a regular part of the co-op board meetings in the Lawson apartment for six years, was removed from Sutton Place the day after the september incident with Anthony Liberatore and now lives in East Hampton with Melissa Lawson.
“Luckily we have another home. It’s disruptive to our life, to our marriage. It stinks for everybody,” Bill Lawson said, adding while Bodie “shouldn’t be biting people, without a doubt,” the Liberatores lawsuit was “absurd.”
Lawson, who has lived at Sutton Place for 50 years, claimed the Liberatores were barely there and didn’t flee as of Bodie.
“This is a pied-à-terre for them.”
The Liberatores tried to resolve the matter before running to court but were unsuccessful, said their lawyer, Steven Sladkus, who said it didn’t matter if they kept the home as a pied-à-terre or not.
“If you came to the building once and a dog bit you would you be happy?” Sladkus said. “This is a very serious situation and my clients don’t want this to happen to anyone else.”
