Ottawa police bring on K9 officer who can detect electronic devices

The newest recruit to the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is a two-year-old black Labrador Retriever with a unique ability that will aid the force in investigating child exploitation cases.

Piper is not a typical police dog, officials said in a press release. She has “mastered” the ability to detect the scent of electronic devices, like hard drives, USB sticks, SD cards and AirTags. This will help the force’s Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) unit in searches if suspects attempt to hide evidence.

She was first trained in the United States with the Indiana Canine Assistant Program, before she moved to Jordan Detection K9 where she trained in electronic storage detection.

For four months, Piper trained to detect the scent of electronic devices in real-world scenarios like apartments, abandoned hotels, vehicles and outdoor areas.

This, police said, was “to ensure she could detect hidden devices no matter where offenders tried to conceal them.”

She is the first of her kind in OPS, but not the first in Canada. That honour goes to Harley, a yellow lab who joined Peel Regional Police in 2023.

Detective Dominic Paykarimah, with OPS, travelled to the U.S. for two weeks to then train with Piper. The focus was not just on search techniques but on building trust and a deep bond.

“This partnership is critical,” officials said. “Piper’s work relies on seamless cooperation and understanding with her handler in high-stakes situations.”

Being a dog, Piper also has a dual purpose in the unit. She can also provide comfort for child victims, helping them feel safer during challenging parts of investigations.

“Her presence also boosts morale across the service, offering stress relief and companionship to officers on demanding cases,” police said.

When not out in the field, Piper can be found in the community. She’s set to visit schools and events and help teach children and guardians about safe digital behaviour.

Officials said that Piper is part of a U.S.-based charity that helps police fight child trafficking and exploitation.

“OUR Rescue generously funded Piper’s acquisition, training, gear, and ongoing care, allowing OPS to bring this specialized capability into the fight against child exploitation.”