Winter Haven Police Welcome Emotional Support Dog, Miranda

WINTER HAVEN, FL — A 15-month-old yellow Labrador retriever is the newest addition to the Winter Haven Police Department.

"Meet Miranda," the agency said Thurssday. "The Winter Haven Police Department announces a new member to the department —Miranda — the first therapy dog for the agency and actually first in law enforcement in Polk County."

Miranda was donated by Mediation and Counseling Consultants in Winter Haven. Her handler is Detective Elyse Chapnick.

Police officials said owner Kathy Leggett, had worked with the city and the police department in the past and wanted to do something special.

"We have seen a growing trend in therapy dogs becoming more popular in the law enforcement realm and the timing was perfect for Miranda to come on board," said Public Safety Director and Police Chief Charlie Bird.

Miranda is a certified therapy dog. She will be used to bring comfort to both crime victims as well as members of the department.

"Officers are human beings and sometimes the scenes they are exposed to can pay an emotional toll," said Byrd. "Miranda won't erase the incident, but she can certainly help with a smile and give that well-needed diversion for a few minutes."

Officials said Miranda may also help crime victims open up about what happened to them, particularly in the case of violent crimes.

"Traumatic events are tough to speak about, but Miranda will help bring the calm to give the victims comfort as they talk about their ordeal," officials added.