Barrett becomes courthouse facility dog

10/12/2021

Nearly two years ago, the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office announced the “employment” of Barrett, an F1B Golden Doodle.

Some 22 months later, Barrett celebrates his second birthday today, and as such, officially becomes a courthouse facility dog. Or, a dog specifically trained to provide a calming influence on vulnerable people during the investigation and prosecution of crimes.

“Having a trained, dedicated courthouse facility dog on site to ease the emotions and overwhelming atmosphere that a courtroom can have on victims and witnesses is a tremendous asset,” County Attorney Mike Freeman stated.

"I am so pleased with the great work staff in our office have done to ensure Barrett’s training was completed, making him a valuable resource to this office and our community justice partners.”

Barrett was able to achieve the status of a courthouse facility dog thanks to the 18 months of private training he had with a professional dog trainer. Over the course of his training, Barrett developed a skillset suitable for working in the Hennepin County Government Center, courtrooms, elevators and offices.

His cool and even-keeled temperament, along with intelligence and obedience, can be attributed to his breeding. An F1B Golden Doodle is 75% black Standard Poodle and 25% Golden Retriever, and is fantastically well-suited for working in professional settings.

As a courthouse facility dog, Barrett supports victims and witnesses of crime. His training asserts his ability to remain poised and present despite settings that may otherwise be raucous or distracting.

“From years of experience working with victims and witnesses in my role with the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office,” Division Manager of Victim Witness Services, Vernona Boswell said, “having Barrett around for those who are nervous or afraid of appearing in court to testify, is really helpful. He’ll have a positive impact on everyone he comes in contact with.”

In October, Barrett received his credentials from the American Kennel Club to support victims and witnesses. To maintain those credentials, he will retest every two years.

As it stands, Barrett has had more than 400 hours of training in the Government Center.