K-9 Count set to help agents sniff out child sex crimes in Northeast Kansas

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - One K-9′s snout is now set to help members of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation sniff out human sex trafficking and child sex crimes in Northeast Kansas.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation announced on Monday, Nov. 20, that it has grown by one K-9 member. K-9 Count, a black Labrador Retriever, has joined the Northeast Child Victims Taskforce in Topeka. He is certified in electronic storage detection.

KBI noted that Count’s amazing sense of smell helps agents find hidden electronic devices like cell phones, computers, thumb drives, SD cards and other evidence of child exploitation.

Additionally, the Bureau indicated that Count and his handler, Aaron, can find valuable digital evidence related to homicides and other major criminal cases. Count also provides comfort to child victims at crime scenes and to children and their families during difficult interviews.

“There’s a huge need, with the way computers have evolved, there’s a huge need for these dogs,” said Special Agent Aaron Hachmeister, Count’s handler with the KBI. “They do great work. He is basically another tool to be used to help us save children in Kansas.”

KBI told 13 NEWS that Count’s first day was Nov. 13. Law enforcement agencies in Northeast Kansas can now request his aid and the pair will attempt to help. He will also put on his emotional support cape for general wellness for employees throughout the agency.

KBI said Count was donated by Operation Underground Railroad, a nonprofit committed to aiding law enforcement in the fight against child sex trafficking. He was trained by Jordan Dection K9 - Electronic Detection K9 in Indianapolis.

Count is not the first electronic storage detection K-9 in Kansas, however, he is one of only two in the state. In June, the Shawnee Co. District Attorney’s Office introduced K-9 Goose, who also helps investigators in the Topeka area fight sex trafficking with his ability to sniff out electronics. Goose was also brought to the area by Operation Underground Rescue.

For more information about Operation Underground Rescue or to donate, click HERE.

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