Paz is being allowed to accompany a kidnapping victim into the Kings County, New York Supreme Court

[charlotte bednarsh]

Over the past several month, during pretrial proceedings, Paz has been providing support to a young kidnapping victim who is only able to assist prosecutors when Paz is with her.  The trial is commencing next week, and the Kings County (New York) Supreme Court has granted permission for Paz to accompany the victim into the courthouse, and remain with her in a room adjacent to the courtroom; whereas he cannot accompany her into the courtroom, he will be waiting for her when she is done testifying. I am so proud of him.  Paz's work is being highlighted on page 10 of Pet Partners Interactions Magazine, Summer 2015.

http://www.petpartners.org/file/document-upload-center/Pet-Partners...

Therapy animals truly exemplify the amazing healing power of the human animal bond.

[charlotte bednarsh]

Thank you everyone for your wonderful encouragement.   FYI, the jury is still deliberating on the case, so there is no verdict yet.   There were so many charges, so they have to deliberate about each charge.  I'll keep you all posted....I hope this horrific man will be sentenced to life in prison...I hope!

[Cathy, Fozzie & Shaggy]

The work the two of you are doing is incredible! Not only are you helping people through a most difficult time but you both are also helping to open doors for future therapy teams to be able to provide similar support to many others. Thank you!!!!

[charlotte bednarsh]

Thank you everyone for your lovely comments and support; the kidnapping victim's testimony is taking place this Monday, April 27.  It was initially scheduled for last Wednesday, but  her testimony was delayed because the accused's behavior during the trial became problematic, causing the proceedings to be delayed.   So everything is set for Monday, and I'm so glad that Paz will be able to accompany the victim into the courthouse;  she is so very frightened as she must identify the accused, and his defense attorney has no scruples. Thank goodness Paz will be there, and the judge has said if the victim becomes overwhelmed, he will temporarily stop the proceedings, which will essentially give time for the victim to see the dog, and collect herself. The victim suffers from severe PTSD and becomes physically ill when discussing the events.  Our staff at the Brooklyn Family Justice Center and the Brooklyn District Attorney's office plans to pack the courtroom to demonstrate support for the victim, and let her know how much we all care. I only hope and pray that justice is ultimately served, and this man is sentenced to jail for the rest of his life.     

[Richard Crowe]

Wonderful!  IMO, we are far too restrictive in allowing dogs entrance into public facilities including restaurants.

[BG and Gavin]

This is a great step in the right direction.  Paz is a miracle worker.  In December in Calgary, Alberta a therapy dog was allowed to be present for two children testifying again a parent on sexual abuse charges.  This was a first in Canada. Part of the rational is that the dog would be less likely to "influence" the testimony of the children than a court support worker would.  I will keep you and Paz and the crime victim in my thoughts. 

[F, Calla & Luca]

What great work you two are doing!

[charlotte bednarsh]

Thank you everyone for your kind words.  Our doodles are truly amazing!

[Gail and Bailey]

Amazing work you and Paz do!  I read the Pet Partners Magazine cover to cover and had tears streaming!  

You and Paz and all the others are truly angels!

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Oh Paz and Charlotte....you are my heros.

[Lori, Quincy & Frankie]

This is so wonderful.  Good for Paz (and you for training him) for such an important role.