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The HERO program is a statewide Certified Facility Dog Program to assist in helping victims and/or witnesses throughout the criminal justice process.  HERO – Help Empower Restore Overcome – program began as a result of one facility dog making a difference across Alabama. Facility dog Willow began working in the criminal justice system in May 2014. The impact she made was profound. As a result of her work, Alabama’s Office of Prosecution Services (OPS) submitted a grant application to the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) that would fund the work of facility dogs and their handlers across the state. The VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) grant was funded and is utilized to ensure that every victim in Alabama has access to the use of a facility dog if they desire to use a Facility Dog.   Alabama currently has 13 facility dogs working across the state.

Why use a Facility Dog for the criminal justice process?

Frequently people, especially children, who have been victims of crime or who have witnessed a crime of violence are emotionally affected and traumatized by those events. They are often reluctant to disclose and, during the trial, they are often re-traumatized by those events. They have to describe, in detail, what happened to them in front of a courtroom full of strangers. Creating a comfortable atmosphere for the victim and/or witness is important for the prosecution and the defense. When the victim/witness is comfortable, emotions may not obstruct or slow down testimony, the victim and/or witness may be able to recall more details and information and be able to answer questions from the prosecution and defense, allowing justice to be served in each case.

Who is Gallant?

Gallant V is a specially trained facility dog working with the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office through the HERO Facility Dog Program. Gallant was trained by Canine Companions in Orlando, Florida. Gallant was placed with his handler, Tonya Willingham,  in August 2025 as her successor facility dog, after Fitz retired.

Gallant lays quietly beside or at the feet of a victim or witness during forensic interviews, forensic medical examinations, therapy, and in court. Gallant's presence helps reduce stress, builds confidence and promotes communication. His calm presence helps victims and witnesses feel safe, supported, and empowered as they navigate the criminal justice process. 

• Child Abuse- physical or sexual
• Domestic Violence
• Murder/Capital Murder
• Assault

Gallant’s presence can provide a calming atmosphere for the families of a Murder victim during the court process.  He has provided comfort for several families for pre-trial hearings, trial and sentencing in Murder or Capital Murder cases.  In other crimes of violence, as mentioned above, Gallant can sit with the victim and/or witness during pre-trial hearings, at their feet when they testify at trial, throughout the course of the trial and also at sentencing if the defendant is found guilty.

How to request Gallant if you are victim/witness or family of a victim in Shelby County:

If you think you or your family member could benefit from having Gallant present with you throughout the court process, please let your victim service officer (VSO) know that you would like to have him present during the court process.  You can also let the prosecuting Assistant District Attorney know at any point of the process.