MDFL Victim Witness Staff Team Up with Facility Dogs Lorne and Barley

As the use of dogs in the criminal justice system increases across the country, there has been a growing call for facility dogs within the MDFL. A highly trained facility dog used in proper circumstances can reduce the stress experienced by victims and witnesses, foster connections with the prosecution team, encourage communication, and inspire a sense of trust.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida has partnered with Voices for Children, a Tampa non-profit organization, for use of their certified facility dogs throughout the district.

Lorne is a 6-year-old Golden Retriever and Barley is a 3.5-year-old Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever.

The dogs assist with vulnerable victims, such as children, the elderly, and victims of human trafficking.

Lorne and Barley recently visited the Tampa Office to meet our amazing Victim-Witness staff and to sniff out who keeps the best office snacks.