Meet the newest recruits in the fight against crime - digital detection dogs

The dogs, alongside their handlers, are ready to tackle the challenges posed by criminals across Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and Thames Valley. They underwent an intensive eight-week training programme to enhance their ability to detect a range of digital and media devices used by offenders. Their sense of smell has been honed to identify mobile phones, laptops, USB drives, SIM cards, crypto wallets, hard drives, spy cameras and tracking devices.

This specialised skill is crucial as these devices are often used by criminals to store or transmit illegal content, making the detection of such devices essential. The dogs have already been deployed to assist in high-priority investigations, including those by Child Abuse Investigation Units, Priority Crime Teams and Commercial Vehicle Units. Police dog instructor Tim Lawrence said: "We are incredibly proud of our dogs and their handlers.



"They are already making a significant impact in investigations across the forces and playing a crucial role in helping us solve complex cases and protect our communities.".