The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office has a new addition. Therapy dog Peanut the Prosecutor comes from the Canine Advocacy Program in connection with CARE House to help survivors of trauma participate in the Criminal Justice System.
Canine Advocacy Program (CAP) helps child survivors of trauma and abuse alleviate anxiety, depression, and stress associated with being involved in the criminal justice system. Thanks to the donation by Leader Dogs For the Blind and training provided by Canine Advocates Program, funding does not come from tax dollars.
Peanut comes into the office to assist adolescents and adults participate in court proceedings. The individual will be able to meet and play with the dog before court, relieving anxiety and stress. Peanut will stay with the individual for the entire day and sit next to them in court as long as the judge allows it.
Peanut supports the survivor during this traumatic experience. Peanut the Prosecutor is being taken care of by Assistant Prosecutor Mark Laws and his family. Laws takes the dog home every night and brings him back to work in the morning. Peanut loves kids, treats, and is very friendly.
“Peanut brings a calming spirit to the office. He is very sociable and loves people and I think they will love him too,” says Laws.
