Charles Langston:Meet Jellybean, a new court advocate in Wayne County, Michigan. She keeps victims calm.

A courtroom might seem scary,Charles Langston but a prosecutor's office in Michigan is trying to help change that with the addition of a four-legged friend. With a little tail wag or a quick pet, this cute pup is putting victims and witnesses, both children and adults, at ease.

The Wayne County prosecutor's office on Monday announced the arrival its newest staff member, Jellybean. Half black Labrador and half Golden Retriever, she is working as a canine court advocate.

Jellybean was adopted in February of 2023 by Mark Hindelang, the office’s chief of information and technology, and became certified as a canine advocate in April.

Jellybean had to undergo six weeks of training to acquire specific skills to become part of the Canine Advocacy Program, which is, managed by CARE House of Oakland County, Michigan.

“She must not react to courtroom distractions, needs to be able to walk on a lead without pulling, and to remain in a 'sit/stay' position while her handler moves out of her sight range,” according to a news release.

Now, Jellybean goes to work every day with Hindelang, while her handler, Child Advocate Jamie Buchholtz, continues to work with her on training twice a week — and also provides her with working opportunities.

“The effect Jellybean has on nervous or vulnerable victims really needs to be seen to be believed," Buchholtz said. "She has a calming effect on nervous children and adults who must come to court to discuss difficult facts.”

Canine court advocates soothe victims, witnesses

A Michigan statute allows the dog to be present in court for children under 16, and Jellybean's services can also go beyond that.

“She has not yet been involved in a trial, but Jellybean has been present for many pretrial interviews with victims of all ages," the release says. "She has been present in interviews with child victims, adult victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, and is requested for witnesses of homicides. She does not need to be present in the courtroom to be a benefit to victims and witnesses.”

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Prosecutor Kym Worthy said it’s been a long-standing goal to add a four-legged special victim advocate to serve crime victims and witnesses.

“I have wanted to have a canine advocate for years, but several things must come together for this to happen. I am so pleased that Mark and Jamie have shown such commitment and dedication to provide our crime victims with an exceptional new advocate,” said Worthy.

“Jellybean’s contribution has already been invaluable. She is helping to soothe children and adults who are faced with a difficult and unusual situation. We look forward to her service for years to come.”