Advocating for young crime victims Pilot Program Announced

Roxy Reading Therapy Dogs is piloting an extension of their Courthouse Dogs Program with young victims of crime. Ten select and specially trained volunteer therapy teams are now on-call, working with the Network of Victim’s Assistance and through the District Attorney’s Office, to  bring comfort to minors who are victims of serious crimes and abuse. Volunteer teams stay with the children on the days they must testify before a jury, a judge, prep for testimony, etc. most likely in the presence of their abuser. The children often relive the details of the crime in order to provide evidence in a case to prosecute the accused. Although not permitted into the courtroom, the therapy dogs are on site throughout the proceedings to provide comfort and a “safe space” for the children to relax.  Visits so far have been remarkably successful. More to come!