Golden Retriever Taffy Sniffs Out Tech in Child Crime Cases

Nearly three-year-old Taffy has a job most dogs could never imagine: finding the tiny electronic devices criminals use to hide evidence of child exploitation.

The golden retriever works with the Saskatoon Police Internet Child Exploitation unit as an electronic storage detection dog. Her nose can identify the chemical compounds in cell phones, USB drives, SD cards, and laptops that human investigators might miss during searches.

"Digital evidence plays a significant role in internet child exploitation investigations," said Staff Sergeant Tim Failler, who coordinates the unit. Even the smallest device can hold thousands of images, videos, and messages that become crucial evidence in court.

Taffy came to Saskatchewan police through OUR Rescue, a nonprofit that trains and donates specialized dogs to law enforcement agencies fighting human trafficking and child exploitation. The organization covers all her ongoing training costs and even her treats.

Detective Bryon Sommacal, Taffy's handler, says her abilities speed up investigations in large search areas. "Their noses are extraordinary parts of their anatomy," he told CBC. "All these dogs are used, basically, to make sure we don't miss anything."

OUR Rescue has now placed 142 electronic storage detection dogs across seven countries, including 38 U.S. states. The dogs represent a growing trend of canine careers beyond traditional drug detection work.

Sunny's Take

But Taffy's job description goes far beyond finding evidence. She also works as a therapy support dog for child victims of sexual crimes and officers experiencing trauma.

Recently, she comforted police members after they lost a colleague suddenly. Her calm, gentle demeanor helps people feel safe during incredibly difficult moments.

"You can see her demeanor is so calm...she's just so nice to be around," Failler said. "It helps people be more comfortable in an uncomfortable situation."

Taffy even has her own official police badge, though she probably cares more about the treats and praise she gets for a job well done. This very good girl is making a real difference in bringing offenders to justice while healing those affected by crime.