Muncie Area Courts Getting 1st Courthouse Dog

MUNCIE, Ind. (AP) — The first courthouse dog is ready to go to work this week at Muncie's Delaware County courts.

The (Muncie) Star Press reports that a 21-month-old female black Labrador named Frankie will be introduced Friday afternoon on the third floor of the Delaware County Building. Frankie is latest team member at the county's Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA, office.

The CASA office received $16,000 earlier this year for Frankie. CASA director Ashley Soldaat says Frankie "will provide silent comfort and support to children" and abuse and neglect victims who are involved in the justice system.

Delaware County was matched with Frankie in February. She's a graduate of Support Dogs Inc. in St. Louis. Soldaat will care for Frankie outside of work hours.