Meet Nala: The Police Dog That Sniffs Out Electronic Devices to Fight Internet Crimes Against Children – Canine Tech Detective Tackles Digital Evidence

Meet Nala: The Digital Sleuth Canine Safeguarding Kids Online

Nala, a 4-year-old English Labrador, is no ordinary dog. As a specialized electronic storage detection (ESD) K9, she’s a crucial member of the Seattle Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force. Her unique skill? Sniffing out electronic devices that could contain evidence of child exploitation.

Working alongside Detective Daljit Gill, Nala’s keen sense of smell detects a chemical compound called triphenylphosphine oxide (TPPO), commonly found in electronic storage devices. Her ability to locate hidden hard drives, smartphones, and even tiny microSD cards makes her an invaluable asset in the fight against cyber crimes targeting children.

When you see Nala in action, you’ll notice her high energy and determination. As she sweeps a room, her behavior changes noticeably when she picks up the scent of TPPO. She’ll paw eagerly at the suspected hiding spot, signaling her handler that she’s found something interesting.

The Growing Digital Threat

In recent years, you’ve likely heard about the alarming increase in online crimes against children. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this issue, with more children and predators spending time online. To put this in perspective:

Cyber tips in Washington state have skyrocketed from about 200 per month in 2020 to 1,500-2,000.
Case referrals from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children have more than doubled since 2019.

This surge in cases underscores the critical need for specialized resources like Nala, as artificial intelligence advances, new challenges emerge, such as creating and distributing deepfake content featuring minors.

A Tail-Wagging Stress Reliever

Investigating crimes against children is undoubtedly one of the most challenging aspects of law enforcement. The ICAC task force deals with disturbing content daily, which can take a significant toll on the officers’ mental health.

This is where Nala’s role extends beyond her technical skills. Her friendly demeanor and constant presence in the office provide a much-needed source of comfort and stress relief for the team. You’ll often find her snuggling with stuffed animals or seeking attention from officers, offering respite from their demanding work.

Nala’s impact on the team’s morale is immeasurable. She brings a touch of levity to an otherwise somber environment, reminding the officers of the innocence they’re working to protect. When you visit the ICAC office, you might even receive Nala’s “trading card,” complete with her stats and favorite activities – a lighthearted touch in a serious setting.