The Story Behind Heidi

Yale Police Department hosted a rare behind-the-scenes event that detailed how Heidi, Yale Police’s facility dog, and other service and facility dogs were trained by incarcerated individuals at the Green Haven correctional facility in New York.

Puppies Behind Bars President and Founder Gloria Gilbert Stoga shared how she wanted to document the incarcerated program and asked Pulitzer Prize finalist Ashley Gilbertson if he would be interested in the project.

Gilbertson, a war photographer, said he had no idea what to expect. He said the facility is a hard and rough place, and initially, there was boundary testing from the incarcerated individuals. Over time, he saw the men soften when they realized they were responsible for looking after another life.

Puppies Behind Bars considers the length of the sentence, the nature of the crime, and the mental capacity of incarcerated individuals interested in participating in the 2-year rigorous training program.

Officer Rich Simons, handler for Heidi, said the 14-day virtual training (due to the pandemic) was the toughest, emotional, physical, and the best days he’s experienced.

“The men treated me like I was one of their own,” Simons said. I am a better officer, man, and person.” Yale Police Department received Heidi in 2020. Yale is the first Ivy League school to have a facility dog on campus.