Meet the furry and newest Berrien County Prosecutor’s Office member, Zoey. The two-year-old yellow lab has been at the prosecutor’s office since the beginning of this year and was donated through a grant.

Taylor Koch, owner and prosecuting attorney, tells us Zoey is a canine advocate who helps provide support not only to those who come into court but also to office staff.

“Her main goal is to provide support in the office but also in the courtroom,” Koch says. “She can sit with anyone under 16  on the stand while they testify. When kids are talking about difficult stuff in court, she sits at their feet with one of our victim advocates behind that victim and they get to pet and play with her.”

Zoey is hard at work Monday through Friday, helping out in the courtroom and the office. Koch tells us Zoey has helped many victims this year, including adults, as they help calm and calm the mood.

Koch says the yellow lab is an enjoyable and cheerful face for several people who come into her office every day.

“Just to lift the spirits and lift the mood,” Koch says. “I think everyone, even law enforcement that comes in every day, is excited to see her. The public that has to come in court and have to deal with really difficult stuff, she provides an immeasurable amount of support. She helps a lot of people.”

Zoey replaced Mr. Weeber, who retired with Jeff Taylor, earlier this year.

During her free time, Zoey loves her lunch walks and her daily pup cups. She loves to go to the beach, but you won’t see her in the water.