Trial in Franklin County Dog attack set for November, judge denies change of venue

FRANKLIN COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) — Brandy Dowdy was in the Franklin County Courtroom on Wednesday for a motion to change venues hearing.

Brandy Dowdy of Red Bay is accused of owning dogs that killed two women in 2022.

Prosecutors say a pack of dogs owned by Dowdy attacked Michelle Sheeks as Sheeks was walking near her home on April 28, 2022. The next day, an Alabama Department of Public Health employee, Jacqueline Summer Beard, was sent to do a follow-up report on the attacks.

Prosecutors say the same pack of dogs then killed her after she arrived on the property.

On Wednesday, Dowdy’s lawyer argued the trial should be moved out of Franklin County because Dowdy can’t get a fair trial here. Dowdy’s lawyer also said Franklin County is a close-knit community, and a social media site with a large local following has frequently criticized her, which makes it very difficult to find an unbiased jury.

Judge Brian Hamilton denied the motion.

After the motion was denied, Judge Hamilton asked Dowdy is she wanted a court-appointed co-counsel since Dowdy’s co-counsel withdrew, but Dowdy declined.

The trial is set for November 3, starting at 9 a.m., at the Franklin County Courthouse.