Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele has announced the addition of K-9 Barney, a two-year-old golden retriever and labrador mix, as the Courthouse Comfort Dog, reports Ryan Genova for Glenside Local.

Barney succeeds the District Attorney’s former Courthouse Comfort Dog, Turks. Turks retired in April 2021 due to medical reasons after nearly seven years of dedicated service.

Barney, trained by Canine Partners for Life, provides emotional support to victims and witnesses during police interviews or court testimonies about traumatic experiences. District Attorney Steele emphasized the crucial role of courthouse comfort dogs, especially for children, in sharing vital information. “Barney is a great dog, and we are thrilled to welcome him to our team,” Steele remarked.

Born on June 16, 2022, Barney underwent initial training with a volunteer puppy raiser in Delaware before advancing to SCI Somerset. 

Currently, Barney is in the final stages of training alongside his new handler, Montgomery County Det. Eric Nelson. Together, they are familiarizing themselves with the District Attorney’s Office, the Montgomery County Detective Bureau, and county courtrooms. 

Post-work, Barney joins Det. Nelson’s family. DA Steele noted Barney’s fondness for fetch and stuffed animal toys with squeakers, highlighting his playful nature.

Read more about Barney the Courthouse Comfort Dog at Glenside Local.

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