Comforting Kids in Tough Situations The Job of a New County Employee

When kids are victims talking to authorities isn't easy. But Yakima County has a new employee who's helping children when they're being interviewed by officials from the Children's Advocacy Center of Yakima County.

The new employee loves to help kids

The center is the place where representatives from law enforcement, medical practitioners, prosecution, child protective services, and victim advocacy meet to discuss and make decisions about investigation, treatment, intervention, and the prosecution of child abuse cases. Yakima County Prosecutor Joe Brusic says the new employee's name is Diamond, a black Labrador that Brusic says has been bred, selected, and professionally trained to go to work every day in a challenging environment with her handler, who is a member of the Prosecutor's staff, and who has experience providing support to child victims and witnesses.

Diamond helps kids both in and out of the courtroom

Diamond simply acts as a comforter for kids in difficult situations. He says she's a quiet, affectionate dog who enjoys close contact with children and helps children feel safe and calm, providing comfort during interviews and in courtroom hearings. Diamond is one of thousands of dogs used in courtrooms all around the country to help children in difficult situations. While on the job she's focused. But when Diamond is off the job she's a happy companion to her owner.

The Children's Advocacy Center is located at the Yakima County Courthouse, 128 N. 2nd St., Room 103 Yakima, WA 98901 and can be reached at (509)-574-1288 or Email CACYakima@co.vakima.wa.us.