Springfield, IL (WAND) – Victims and witnesses involved in federal criminal cases across central Illinois now have a four-legged source of comfort as they navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Maisy, a specially trained facility dog with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois, is helping reduce stress and anxiety for victims and witnesses involved in federal prosecutions. The black Labrador retriever joined the office in August 2025 after completing two years of specialized training designed to prepare her for the unique role. She is also the nation’s first U.S. Attorney’s Office Facility Dog.

U.S. Attorney Gregory Gilmore said the office handles a wide range of federal cases, including violent crimes, drug trafficking, child exploitation cases, immigration offenses and kidnappings. Those cases often involve victims and witnesses who must recount traumatic experiences during interviews and court proceedings.

“Testifying in court and being interviewed regarding a crime can be very traumatic and stressful,” Gilmore said. “Studies have shown that a facility dog can lower the stress level of victims and witnesses.”

According to Gilmore, victims often relive painful experiences while explaining what happened to them.

“Oftentimes when a victim is telling their story and explaining what happened, it’s re-victimization of that person,” he said. “Maisy can really lower that stress level and assist.”

Maisy was bred specifically to become a facility dog and trained from birth until age two in California before being donated to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Along with Maisy’s training, the victim-witness coordinator also received instruction on the proper handling and use of the dog in legal settings.

Since arriving in central Illinois, Maisy has assisted victims and witnesses both in and out of court. Gilmore said the impact is evident almost immediately upon entering a room.

“It’s difficult to measure, but we can see when Maisy enters a room and provides comfort to those victims and witnesses,” he said. “Stress levels go down. Individuals can listen to a question more carefully and answer it more fully.”

He added that Maisy has become another valuable resource for prosecutors and victim advocates seeking justice.

“It just provides another tool in the toolbox of seeking justice for victims,” he said.

While Maisy’s primary role is supporting victims and witnesses, Gilmore said she has also become a welcome presence around the office. Still, her training allows her to remain unobtrusive in professional settings.