Lycoming County has just welcomed a new addition to its law enforcement team: Doug, a 2‑year‑old electronic storage detection (ESD) canine working with the District Attorney’s Office in Williamsport. Doug signals a shift toward high-tech policing as law enforcement agencies seek smarter ways to uncover electronic evidence.

From Donation to Detection

Doug was donated by the nonprofit Our Rescue and underwent training at Jordan Detection K‑9 in Indiana. Equipped to find everything from cell phones to SIM cards, micro SDs, AirTags, hidden cameras and more, Doug detects the scent of triphenylphosphine oxide (TPPO), a compound used in electronic components. He is trained to locate devices even in cars, rooms, and submerged objects up to three feet underwater.

A Mission Against Internet Crimes

Doug’s primary mission is to support Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) investigations. Handler Detective Calvin Irvin, who also serves with the FBI’s violent‑crimes‑against‑children task force, explained that Doug will join operations aimed at identifying and locating electronics used to distribute exploitative imagery. Doug’s keen nose is a valuable ally when it comes to uncovering hidden devices.

Reinforced by Real‑World Results

Irvin’s exposure to successful canine work, such as that of Spike, a similar detection dog from Luzerne County, convinced him of the value of ESD K‑9s. He told District Attorney Tom Marino and Chief County Detective Thomas Ungard that such dogs dramatically improve the efficiency and accuracy of device searches. Both men quickly green‑lit the program.

Praise from the Top

DA Marino praised Doug’s work, calling the canine “another fantastic way of helping solve crimes.” He marveled at Doug’s ability to spot a tiny electronic stick hidden in a box and marveled at the dog’s friendliness: “Doug’s a beautiful dog… he’s right over because he likes the top of his head and his neck rubbed.”

Dual Role: Detector and Healer

Doug is not only a detection dog, he’s also certified as a therapy dog. Irvin noted that Doug can comfort live victims or provide emotional support during CAC interviews. This dual function helps both in evidence recovery and in ensuring victims feel safe and supported.

Fully Funded and Appreciated

The community nonprofit Our Rescue covers all of Doug’s costs, from acquisition and training to vet fees, equipment, and food, ensuring the county incurs no expense. When Doug isn’t working or training, he’s part of the family. His popularity at local events such as Camp Cadet is already evident: cadets are reminded they can’t hide their phones while Doug is around.

A Four‑Legged Star in Camp and Beyond

Doug made a splash at this year's Lycoming County Camp Cadet. State trooper and camp director Lauren Lesher joked, “It is nice to tell the cadets… he will find it,” referring to the cell‑phone ban. Doug’s presence showcased his skills while entertaining and educating the next generation of law‑enforcement enthusiasts.

The Dawn of Advanced Evidence Recovery

Doug’s deployment reflects a broader national trend: law enforcement agencies are integrating ESD K‑9s to combat cybercrime and child‑exploitation. Using their extraordinary scent detection, dogs like Doug help reveal hidden digital evidence that might otherwise escape notice. Moreover, their presence brings comfort to victims and assurance to communities.

In sum, Doug isn't just another law‑enforcement pup, he’s part detective, part therapist, and wholly vital to modern investigations. As Lycoming County embraces this innovation, Doug represents a powerful new approach to uncovering the hidden clues that lead to justice.