In the fight against child sexual exploitation and online distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), the highly trained Electronic Storage Detection (ESD) K9 is a force magnifier for law enforcement. ESD K9s are usually Labrador Retrievers, known for their happy-go-lucky temperaments but when they’re on the job, assisting law enforcement with search warrants, they are laser focused. They alert to the scent of TPPO, a chemical compound used to manufacture devices like cell phones, USB drives, and other micro-storage devices which may contain evidence that can be essential to the prosecution of perpetrators of child exploitation. And, because of their size and the lengths criminals go to conceal them, human searches don’t always find them…but chances are, the ESD K9 will.
A member of the Seattle Police Department, ESD K9 Nala has a reputation for being an exceptional partner. Some days, she helps other law enforcement agencies with search warrants, uncovering mobile phones, laptops, USB drives, Bluetooth-enabled devices, and other small electronics all of which may contain evidence of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).
Nala is specifically trained to ensure no evidence is overlooked. She can detect devices hidden under household clutter, trash, and even in walls, floorboards, and behind electrical outlets. Her work has led to the discovery of crucial evidence, like in the case of a father suspected of offering up his own children for exploitation and rape on the internet. In one search, Nala’s work supported law enforcement in an operation that resulted in thirteen arrests. ESD K9 Nala has located devices that were missed on the majority of the warrants she has assisted with; she also has worked with ESD K9 Blaze, from Benson County, in these investigations.
Thanks to generous contributions from donors like you, Our Rescue can provide law enforcement with ESD K9s for use in the fight against child sexual exploitation, abuse, and online trafficking. While these special K9s are unaware of the crucial role they play in bringing predators to justice and ensuring the safety of children, they are simply motivated to please their handlers and find the key scent that earns them a treat. The results of their efforts help make communities safer for everyone, especially vulnerable children. Please join us in the fight and donate today.
