‘Fallon’ helps calm AZ counter-terrorism detectives
Fallon, who joins the ranks of DPS, is a 2-year-old Golden Retriever. (Source: Arizona Department of Public SafetyPHOENIX (KPHO/KTVK) -
The newest member of theArizona Counter Terrorism Intelligence Center (ACTIC) is not your typical hire.
She comes equipped with a coat of fur and wagging tail.
Fallon is a 2-year-old Golden Retriever that will help calm distressed employees and sniff out digital evidence.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety plans at 9 a.m. news conference on Tuesday to formally welcome the dog to the ranks.
“The idea of an assistance dog that relieves stress makes a world of difference to detectives who must deal with disturbing investigations,” said Cary Dillabo, associate director of Power Paws Assistance Dogs.
“Just sitting with and petting the dog provides stress relief for our law enforcement partners,” Dillabo added.
ACTIC is a joint effort between DPS, Arizona Department of Homeland Security, the FBI and other participating agencies.
It provides intelligence, investigative and technical support to state, local, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies as well as other agencies critical to Arizona and the country's homeland security efforts.
The 100 Club donated Fallon to DPS. The dog came from Power Paws Assistance Dogs.
Two troopers have received special handler training.
DPS said computer forensic detectives at the ACTIC have a difficult job that often involves analyzing hard drives and digital storage devices that possess evidence of sex crimes against children.
“These disturbing images sometimes have a lasting emotional effect on detectives,” DPS said in a news release.
Troopers describe Fallon as a friendly, compassionate dog that is trained to sense emotional distress from people within a given environment.
She is trained to engage a distressed person, getting their attention and giving them a much needed emotional break from their work.
Fallon will also assist detectives looking for hidden digital storage devices containing crucial evidence in a criminal investigation.
DPS said it thanks 100 Club and the “For Those Without A Voice” organization for provided funding to bring Fallon on board, along with the Internet Crimes Against Children.
At Tuesday’s press briefing, DPS Director Col. Frank Milstead will formally introduce the dog, along with Sgt. Marcia Johnson, Fallon’s trainer.
Representatives from The 100 Club, Power Paws and ICAC will also be on hand.
Source: http://www.azfamily.com/story/31223626/fallon-helps-calm-az-counter-terrorism-detectives
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