Avery is Labrador retriever who has been in court all through the trial of Kenneth Nitso, helping the young alleged victim to tell her story.

Trumbull County Assistant Prosecutor Gabe Wildman borrowed the dog from Summit County court.

Ellen O'Neill-Stephens, founder of The Courthouse Dog Foundation, says these facility dogs help vulnerable people participate in stressful legal proceedings.

"They provide a sense of protection to the witness and feel more comfortable describing what happened," O'Neill-Stephens said. 

Summit County Prosecutor Chief Counsel Brad Gessner says Avery's presence has helped more than 280 victims open up on the witness stand.

" They start petting Avery and they're able to tell you about what happened and they're able yo get back to the truth," Gessner told 21 news. 

The eleven year old dog is certified and trained to provide emotional support during the legal process while staying still and calm without interrupting court proceedings.

"They have to have a certain type of personality. They have to be very casual and restful and affectionate an enjoy engaging with people," O'Neill-Stephens said. 

While still rare, Wildman and Gessner both say they expect to see dogs like Avery used more often. Just last month, Mahoning County added their own dog as well.