Meet Parker

By District Attorney Susan K. Treadaway

Providing a multitude of services to crime victims is the core of any effective prosecution unit. That’s why when I first learned of courthouse canines, I knew that someday I wanted one for our team.

“Someday” came last fall when we were introduced to Parker, a puppy at Tails of Hope, a nonprofit organization that provides training and support for service dogs. Parker was perfect for our team and pretty much hired on the spot. Parker has the unique ability to quietly listen, provide a calm presence, and console someone who is going through a traumatic experience.

Many people who come to our office are dealing with trouble beyond human understanding, and a sensitive, well-trained staff member like Parker knows just how to comfort them.

Parker and his handler, Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Rachel Ashe of the Domestic Violence Unit, have attended ongoing classes on everything from advanced obedience to specific tasks typically performed by service animals. In October 2023, Parker obtained the AKC Good Citizen certification. In January, he completed a two-part training class on advanced obedience.

He has mastered deep pressure therapy and is now working on behavior interruptions for anxiety. These skills are important since many individuals experience anxiety and stress while navigating the criminal justice system.

Every day, Parker works with our entire staff to deliver support and comfort, relieve stress, and bring joy wherever his four legs take him. He has also become quite popular with courthouse personnel including the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office deputies, bailiffs, defense attorneys, judges, staff in other departments, visitors, and pretty much anyone else he encounters.

While Parker travels through the courthouse, he occasionally stops to interact with children and families, allowing a pet and offering a paw. He brings happiness to people who are likely dealing with incredibly stressful situations.

His main purpose, however, is to serve vulnerable individuals victimized by felony crimes in Cherokee County.

In the past few months, Parker has demonstrated a propensity for understanding exactly what a victim needs. He recently sat with a traumatized young woman when the jury returned its verdict. Afterward, she tearfully hugged Parker and said, “Thank you, Parker. You are exactly what I needed today.” During another trial, he comforted individuals who had to testify, using behavior interruptions for anxiety, and ending their day with a good, solid Parker lean that provided the support they needed.

Another very special thing about Parker is that he has a canine brother named Reggie who also serves our community. In fact, Reggie paved the way for Parker to join the team. After Reggie became part of the Marshal’s Office last summer, I spoke to Chief Marshal Jamie Gianfala who shared his agency’s success story with Tails of Hope. Reggie was an amazing addition to the Marshal’s Office, so I knew that his brother would be perfect for us. We are so excited to have Parker on our team. He is already making a difference!

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (April 21-27) is an opportunity to honor crime victims and survivors, recognize professionals and volunteers who provide services to victims of crime, and raise awareness about crime victims’ rights and services. The District Attorney’s Office is planning a kick-off walk to occur on Sunday, April 21, followed by other events throughout the week.