June 20, 2023 Joliet – The Lewis University Police Department has a new, four-legged team member – emotional support K9 “Jet,” a three-month-old Golden Retriever purchased by Will County State’s Attorney James Glasgow using money forfeited from drug dealers and money launderers. Jet is Lewis University’s first canine officer, and the 14th police K-9 Glasgow has provided throughout Will County. Lewis University President David Livingston presided over Jet’s swearing-in at a June 20 ceremony in which Glasgow, Lewis University Police Chief Mike Zegadlo and Jet’s Handler Lyle Nettles participated, along with other members of the LUPD.

“In 2012, I established the Paws for Kids dog therapy initiative at the Will County Children’s Advocacy Center, and it has made a tremendous positive impact in relaxing the children and helping them to open up about their experiences. I remember one young girl who was initially hesitant to talk but wanted to come back to the CAC and tell her story after engaging with one of our special therapy dogs,” Glasgow said. “Emotional support dogs offer unconditional affection in a way that humans sometimes cannot.”

Born at Welch Family Goldens in Colchester, Illinois, Jet was trained by K9 Guardians in Lockport. Glasgow purchased Jet, his training, and his canine transport equipment using drug asset money seized from money launderers and drug dealers selling illegal narcotics in Will County. No taxpayer dollars were used.

“College students are suffering from increased anxiety, stress, depression, and even loneliness. Studies show that students generally feel less stressed after interacting with a therapy dog. The presence of therapy animals can lower blood pressure, decrease anxiety, improve mood, and foster feelings of support and confidence in humans. Comfort dogs can help people stay present in the moment while better managing their emotions with resilience,” Glasgow said. “A comfort dog such as Jet can be a lifesaver for both students and adults dealing with trauma and mental health challenges. The empathy and compassion between dogs and humans is a unique bond that brings out the best in both. We can all use a hug from a dog!”

In addition to Jet, State’s Attorney Glasgow has provided “Reno” in Joliet, “Rookie” in Shorewood, “Hutch” in Channahon, “Roxie” in Rockdale; “Mao” in Wilmington; “Simo” in Crest Hill, “Tib” (short for Tiburian) in Elwood; “Tucker” in Park Forest; “Cap” in Monee; “Helmut” in Tinley Park; “Nuke” in Braidwood; and “Apollo” in Manhattan. Glasgow provided the training and K-9 transport equipment for each of these K-9s as well. Additionally, Glasgow partnered with the Will County Sheriff by contributing half the cost for “Loki,” a German Shepherd trained in detecting explosives who joined the Will County Sheriff’s Department to provide critically important technical security at the new Will County courthouse.

K-Jet is now a member of Glasgow’s League of Extraordinary Canines & Friends, an initiative Glasgow established to bring together the law enforcement community, animal control agencies, veterinarians, humane societies, rescue groups, and all who care about the humane treatment of animals to work together in addressing animal cruelty and neglect.