State Watch

Dog sworn in at state attorney’s office in Chicago for new role helping child sexual assault victims

A black Labrador retriever was sworn in at the Cook County, Ill., state attorney’s office Tuesday as its first canine employee.

Two-year-old Hatty was brought in to help assist and provide support to young children who have been victims of sexual assault as they testify in court, according to WGN-9.

{mosads}“She will provide a calming presence in court to our absolute most vulnerable victims,” Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx said during Hatty’s swearing-in ceremony.

The newest Chicago child’s advocate was sworn in as she stood on her hind legs and placed a paw across a law book as an oath was given by Foxx.

Hatty will work on a 9-5 schedule and handle up to 200 cases annually.

She will serve as the office’s first emotional support dog and was trained in part by inmates.