Capitol Police Expanding Facility Dog Program Statewide

Dogs like Vinn, Delaware’s first facility dog, are taught more than 40 commands — including calming pressure therapy — and are certified through Assistance Dogs International (ADI).

A Program Designed for Comfort and Care

The Facility Dog Program pairs specially trained dogs with Capitol Police officers who serve as their handlers. Dogs like Vinn, Delaware’s first facility dog, are taught more than 40 commands — including calming pressure therapy — and are certified through Assistance Dogs International (ADI).

Vinn arrived in Delaware in October 2022 through Canine Companions, a national nonprofit that trains service dogs for law-enforcement, judicial and medical programs across the country. Since then, Vinn has been deployed to assist victims during testimony, reduce anxiety in sensitive interviews, and provide comfort during Protection From Abuse hearings and trial preparation.

How the Program Works

Facility dogs are available to support:

Victims providing testimony in court
Children participating in interviews
Families and witnesses preparing for trial
Individuals involved in emotionally charged hearings

Anyone connected to an active case may request support through the Delaware Courts website: courts.delaware.gov/aoc/facilitydog.aspx

Capitol Police officers assigned as handlers undergo specialized training to ensure the dogs are deployed appropriately during judicial proceedings. The animals remain calm, quiet and focused in courtroom settings — offering emotional reassurance without disrupting proceedings.

Statewide Impact

The expansion of the program brings its services to the Leonard L. Williams Justice Center in Wilmington, the Kent County Courthouse in Dover and the Sussex County Courthouse in Georgetown.

Officials say the program is particularly impactful for children, survivors of domestic violence and families dealing with traumatic events. Research has shown that the presence of a facility dog can reduce stress hormones, stabilize breathing and help individuals communicate more clearly during testimony.

“By bringing this program statewide, we’re ensuring equal access to emotional support for anyone who needs it in any Delaware courthouse,” Capitol Police said.

A Calmer, More Compassionate Court Experience

Courtrooms can be intimidating — especially for those reliving painful events. Delaware’s Facility Dog Program is designed to bridge that emotional gap, making the justice system more humane without altering legal procedures.

As the program grows, Capitol Police say more dogs may be added to the roster, expanding availability for high-volume court days and sensitive cases.

Key Takeaway

The expansion of the Facility Dog Program marks a milestone in Delaware’s commitment to trauma-informed justice. By blending law enforcement expertise with compassionate canine support, the state is offering vulnerable residents a calmer path through the legal system — one paw at a time.