Victims of abuse, particularly children, have a hard time talking about their experiences even with trained investigators.
Willis, a Labrador retriever, has joined the Logan County Prosecutor’s Office victims advocate services as a comfort dog for victims, particularly for children and sex abuse victims. (EXAMINER PHOTO | JOEL E. MAST) |
Sterile or unusual settings can make a victim uneasy and unsure of the people questioning them, adding stress and anxiety.
But the Logan County Prosecutor’s Office recently added a furry asset that has already proven he can ease the stress.
Willis, a 16-month-old Labrador retriever, is trained to sit with victims of traumatic felony level crimes and put them at ease while meeting with prosecutors and investigators.
Victims Advocate Patty Fitzpatrick said she learned of the uniquely trained dogs and decided to apply for an Ohio Attorney General’s grant of $11,000 to get Willis.
Read complete story in Tuesday’s Examiner.
CLICK HERE to subscribe today!
WEB EDITION STARTING AT $9.50 FOR 5 WEEKS!