Kane County children who are victims of crime will have a new furry friend to help them through the often challenging process of navigating the criminal justice system.
In a Facebook post Friday morning, Kane County State’s Attorney Jamie L. Mosser and the Kane County Child Advocacy Center (KCCAC) announced the newest addition to their team— DuoDog Captain, a two-year-old Labrador Retriever trained to provide comfort and support to children during crime investigations.
DuoDog Captain will serve as the center’s first-ever facility dog.
“I am incredibly excited and grateful to welcome DuoDog Captain to our team,” said State’s Attorney Jamie Mosser. “Navigating the criminal justice system can be intimidating, especially for young victims. These children have already endured unimaginable hardship, and the last thing they need is to feel further fear and anxiety while seeking justice. Captain’s presence will provide comfort, compassion, and companionship to children seeking protection and justice through the Child Advocacy Center, and his addition our office reflects my ongoing dedication to ensuring that every child who walks through our doors is met with the understanding and support they deserve.”
According to the post, research has shown that interaction with facility dogs can lower heart rates, reduce stress, and improve overall emotional well-being. DuoDog Captain will provide emotional support to children during forensic interviews, court preparation, and courtroom proceedings, including courtroom testimony.
“DuoDog Captain has already made a remarkable impact, quickly becoming a beloved member of our team,” said Assistant State’s Attorney Lori Schmidt, Executive Director of the KCCAC. “With his calm and gentle nature, Captain has an incredible ability to sense when children need comfort, offering quiet companionship during difficult moments. Facility dogs like Captain play a vital role in supporting children and families through this challenging process, and we are grateful to have him as part of the CAC, knowing he will bring hope and healing to those who need it most.”
With a judge’s consent, child victims of sexual assault and other violent crimes may have the assistance of a facility dog even while testifying.
DuoDog Captain’s ongoing costs are funded by the Friends of the Kane County Child Advocacy Center, a dedicated non-profit organization providing essential resources to child victims and their families. For more information or to support DuoDog Captain and the KCCAC, visit https://cac.kanecountyil.gov/.
