In a groundbreaking effort to combat child exploitation, the Wisconsin Department of Justice has introduced a new, furry member to its Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Meet Grainger, a highly trained Labrador retriever with a knack for detecting electronic storage devices.
This unique addition to the team was made possible through a donation by Light Their Way, an anti-human trafficking nonprofit, and aims to enhance the state’s capabilities in uncovering illicit digital materials.
Introducing the ESD Canine
Grainger is not your average canine. Specifically trained as an electronic storage device-sniffing (ESD) dog, Grainger can detect flash drives, SD cards, and other hidden technology often used in unlawful activities. “The dogs can also be utilized to search for hidden cameras,” shared Tami Lepianka, the special agent in charge of the canine unit, with WPR’s “Wisconsin Today.”
Lepianka explained that these dogs are invaluable for ensuring security in places like schools, where hidden cameras might be a concern. The presence of such canines helps reassure communities that their environments are secure.
Expanding Canine Capabilities
Joining Moose, the only other ESD canine in the state’s Department of Justice, Grainger increases the department’s capacity to handle cases across Wisconsin. Special agent Alex Bol, Moose’s handler, highlighted the rising demand for these dogs’ unique skills across the state.
These canines are adept at detecting a substance known as TPPO, which is applied to devices that store files. “Basically what these dogs smell is a substance called TPPO,” Bol explained. Even damaged or powered-off devices are not safe from these skilled snouts.
Beyond Crime Detection
The talents of these canines extend beyond crime detection. They are also essential in finding missing persons who may have electronic devices with them and provide comfort to children during investigations. Moose, for example, can sense a child’s distress and offer comfort by sitting beside them or resting his head on their lap.
Bol noted Moose’s exceptional temperament, saying, “I was a little worried when we were told that I was going to get a year-and-a-half-old lab, but Moose is just not that. He’s an exceptionally kind dog.” Despite still honing his comforting skills, Moose undergoes daily scent detection training.
These canines are food-reward dogs, meaning they work for their meals. On days without search warrants, Bol sets up training sessions to feed Moose, remarking on the dog’s intelligence and ability, “I sometimes joke that Moose is way smarter than I am when it comes to this kind of stuff.”
