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Frequently Asked Questions
Why are electronic detection K9s needed?
As electronic devices have become smaller, it has become easier for criminals to hide evidence on them. Law enforcement faces a higher risk of missing these devices. For example, a small micro device the size of a fingernail can hold an estimated 244,000 images of child abuse. Finding these hidden devices could provide crucial evidence to identify and rescue the children in the images, leading to the prosecution of criminals and potentially uncovering the identities of other offenders.
Who trains the Electronic Detection K9’s?
Not just anyone can train these K9s. It takes a lot of attention to detail and the best K9s to get the job done. One of our favorites is Matrix K-9, Kerry Halligan, located in Connecticut. Kerry is one of the original trainers of the first Electronic Detection K9s in the United States. She is also a former law enforcement officer for the Connecticut State Police, experienced in searches, handling evidence, and presenting it in court.
What types of crimes can K9s assist with?
Since electronics are used in nearly every type of case, it is up to the agency to decide where they want to expand their K9 units. The K9s can assist in searches involving child abuse, sexual abuse, trafficking, child pornography, predators, gangs, murder, white-collar crimes, drugs, terrorism, and more. They can also be used in bomb searches.
How does this affect the law enforcement agency?
Accepting a K9 as a gift comes with significant costs for the agency. The agency is responsible for covering expenses such as vet bills, food for the K9, hotel, food and travel expenses for the handler and K9, as well as badge, uniform, and other necessary supplies. Additionally, there is a need for automobile safety and cooling measures for the K9, as well as a bulletproof vest.
How can I sponsor a K9?
Click this link to learn how to sponsor an electronic detection K9.
How do they help law enforcement during a search?
The team will enter an office, home, or property and remove all electronics from any areas that need to be searched. Law enforcement then sends in a K9 handler and an electronic detection K9 to conduct a thorough sweep of the area to ensure that no devices are left behind. Typically, a device is hidden for a reason.
How many searches does each K9 assist?
Defenders For Children requires that the K9 dogs be active and used to help keep them busy and utilized for their talent. We require each agency that we place a K9 with to have a minimum of 35 searches involving children's crimes per year. Many K9s will have more searches than the minimum requirement.
Why doesn’t the agency buy their own K9?
Defenders for Children believes that the public can be a significant asset in implementing K9 units within agencies that deal with high levels of abuse. The K9 units are a necessary tool and a great way to involve the public, as well as to increase education and awareness about child abuse and trafficking. It also presents a great opportunity to connect the community with law enforcement.
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