Since September 2009 The Victim Advocate Unit at Largo Police Department has been coordinating a countywide program of volunteer dog handlers and their canines called: Pawsibilities.
These canines have been going to court to support minor survivors of sexual abuse during the trial process. Law enforcement victim advocates work in collaboration with assistant state attorneys to coordinate this enhanced service. The dogs are now branching out to appear at some invests & depositions as well.
Brando--Caleb--Caymus--Cole-Sarge
Having a therapy dog present when a child is waiting for prolonged periods of time, or having to verbalize tramatic events assists in lowering anxiety and re-enforcing feelings of safety and security. Once those things are achieved, often the child feels empowered to tell their truth, even in the conflict setting of a courtroom.
This service is provided at no cost to the Sixth Circuit. All the canines have been certified via Therapy Dogs International. http://www.tdi-dog.org/
If you see any of our four legged friends walking the halls of the Criminal Justice Center, please say hello. As their vests say: “I’m friendly, please pet me”.
Christine Barsema --Belinda Darcy--Amanda Hanson
Some of Pawsibilities volunteer TDI handlers. Collaboration is the key to Pawsibilities, our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds with varied experiences. Amanda currently attends Stetson Law School, where she is president of the Animal Defense League. Belinda is employed by Largo Police Department as a Domestic Violence Intervention Specialist. Christine is retired, however stays very busy with canine related training, competitions, and volunteer work.
An important voice in collaborating for children: Help A Child, A Division of Suncoast Center Inc.
Cricket Goes to Court — Is at the Printers!
Coleen Chaney--Bernie McCabe--Gwen White display the Cricket cover art
