The Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office announced a modest $2,000 budget request to continue caring for Karissa, a black Labrador retriever that has been providing comfort to crime victims and witnesses since 2023. The request, slated for the 2027 fiscal year, reflects the office’s commitment to supporting victims of violent crime and aligns with recent state legislation that expands the use of certified facility dogs in courtroom testimony.
Why the funding matters
Karissa’s role is more than a comforting presence; she helps witnesses give clear testimony by reducing anxiety during especially traumatic sex‑offense trials. Since her arrival, the dog has assisted in at least 27 trials and numerous preparation meetings, according to the DA’s office. The proposed $2,000 would cover roughly $1,100 for veterinary care, up to $450 for food and training rewards, and additional funds for grooming, supplies and materials required by the new law.
Cost history and inflation impact
Budget documents submitted to the New Orleans City Council show the facility‑dog program cost $2,020 in 2023, $1,329 in 2024, $1,355 in 2025, and $1,512 in 2026. Over the five‑year period, total actual and projected expenditures amount to about $8,216. The office attributes the rising costs to inflation and a 28% increase in veterinary expenses between 2025 and 2026, noting that “like so many goods and services across America, the cost of caring for and maintaining our facility dog has increased over the past year.”
State law supports the program
Governor Jeff Landry signed House Bill 126 – now known as Act 616 – on June 2, expanding an existing statute to require courts to allow witnesses in sex‑offense trials to be accompanied by a certified facility dog when one is available. The legislation, dubbed “Duvall and Karissa’s Law,” also sets procedures to keep the dog from influencing jurors, such as having the animal enter and exit the courtroom outside the jury’s view. While the law does not mandate districts to acquire facility dogs or fund their care, it affirms the value of these animals in the justice system.
Funding model compared to other parishes
New Orleans’ approach differs from neighboring jurisdictions. In East Baton Rouge Parish, Judge Louise Hines Myers personally pays for the food and veterinary expenses of Diesel, the local facility dog. Likewise, the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office in Lincoln and Union parishes has relied on private funds for its dog, Navy. By budgeting the expense, New Orleans ensures that the care of Karissa is transparent, consistent and not left to the goodwill of individual judges.
Community and grant support
Karissa was provided at no charge by Canine Companions, a nonprofit that trains and places service and facility dogs nationwide. The organization also offers follow‑up training and support without charging recipients. The DA’s office describes the spending as a grant‑funded investment, though the specific grant source is not identified in publicly available budget documents.
Looking ahead
District Attorney Jason Williams praised the new law, saying it removes barriers for crime victims seeking emotional support during testimony. The modest budget request underscores the office’s dedication to maintaining Karissa’s health and readiness to serve the community. By allocating funds now, the city ensures that victims continue to receive compassionate assistance without interruption.
For residents interested in the budget process, the City Council will consider the request during its upcoming finance committee meeting. Community members are encouraged to review the budget documents, which are publicly available on the council’s website.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
