County Attorney’s Office Adds K9 to Staff

(KNSI) – The Stearns County Attorney’s Office has a new furry member on staff whose job is to help victims deal with their stress and fear while working with the criminal justice system.

Golden Retriever Nova officially started work on Tuesday, June 1st, as a facility dog.

Stearns County Attorney’s Office

According to a press release, Nova will meet with victims and witnesses in child abuse, domestic violence, trafficking, and homicide cases during stressful preparation for court hearings by providing comfort and empathy with Nova’s silent, calming presence.

Her handler, Keli Trautman, is a Paralegal/Victim-Witness Coordinator.

Nova graduated from the Helping Paws program in October and has been working together for over a year. Nova has become certified for all public interactions and formally become part of the Stearns County Attorney’s Office staff.

According to the county attorney’s office, victims and witnesses say Nova and Keli’s presence helped them feel safe, supported, and cared for as they make it through the court system.

According to the county attorney’s office, a facility dog is similar to a therapy dog but “works” full-time one place facility under the care and supervision of a staff member. Officials say a therapy dog visits patients or residents at places with its handler for a few hours a week.

The Stearns County Attorney’s Office wanted to give a special thanks to all who have been a part of the program.

– Teri Sinn, Nova’s original trainer through Helping Paws, Inc.
– Maryanne Mahowald, Nova’s local trainer
– Sue Kliewer, Client Services Coordinator and Service Dog Instructor, Helping Paws, Inc.
– Keli Trautman, Stearns County Attorney’s Office Paralegal Victim/Witness Coordinator and Nova’s handler