Special State Project News

Our program for the March meeting was Suzanne Hoolahan, Director of the Child Advocacy Center of Gloucester County (CACGC) and Multi-Disciplinary Team Coordinator (MDT) for Gloucester County. We also heard from Detective Dan Farid and K-9 Walter.

Suzanne has her degree in Criminal Justice, Certification in Child Advocacy and over 17 years of legal field experience. She has worked with the Gloucester County Prosecutors Office since 2019 and was lead in the reorganization and digitization of the entire Megan’s Law Unit.

She found her calling supporting the work of the Special Victims Unit when she joined the team in 2022, and subsequently entered into her current role as Director in 2023. This unit is near and dear to her heart as she works with the team to help child victims, from investigations to community support with partner agencies. She also is responsible for securing funding, working with nonprofit agencies with fundraising, and bringing awareness and prevention to child abuse. As MDT Coordinator, she ensures all children visiting the CACGC receive the proper services and necessary supports for healing and recovery.

K9 Walter is a 2-year-old German Short Hair Pointer who was acquired by the GC Prosecutors Office in 2024. K9 Walter and his handler Detective Daniel Farid attended a 4.5 month long Electronic Scent Detection Training from the NJ State Police. Since graduating, K9 Walter regularly assists detectives assigned to the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force in locating electronics on the scene of search
warrants. K9 Walter’s great demeanor also allows him to be utilized in a comfort role with children, as he is a certified therapy dog who regularly proves invaluable when meeting with children who have witnessed or been a victim of a crime. Walter and his handler regularly provide Internet Safety presentations at schools. Walter has provided a positive experience for thousands of children across Gloucester County, and his impact will be exponential throughout his career.

We had a fantastic time meeting Suzanne, Daniel, and K9 Walter at our meeting.

If you would like to support K9 Walter, we collected the following items, which you can still donate to Denise P, SSP Chairman for delivery to Walter.

  • Sentinel Spectrum Chew for Dogs (50.1-100 lbs.)
  • Chuckit Ultra Ball Dog Toy (Large)
  • Kong brand toys
  • Paper Towels (he slobbers a lot so they’re in constant demand)
  • Chewy.com gift cards for grooming supplies