New Digital Detection Dogs join police to combat digital crime in Hampshire
They've been specially trained to find hidden digital devices and uncover crucial evidence
Last updated 19th Mar 2025
Police in Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and the Thames Valley are welcoming a new set of four-legged recruits.
Evie, Izzy and Moss have been trained as Digital Detection Dogs - introduced to help police locate hidden digital devices used in criminal activity.
These dogs are trained to detect items such as mobile phones, USB drives, SIM cards, hard drives, and spy cameras, which can contain important evidence in serious cases.
The trio are undergoing an intensive eight-week training programme. They are joined by Loki, an experienced dog renewing his licence with a new handler.
Once their training is complete, they will assist officers and work alongside existing Digital Detection Dogs Dizzee and Ruby, who have already been used in investigations involving child exploitation, fraud, and stalking.
Police Dog Instructor Tim Lawrence said:
“Our detection dogs offer invaluable assistance to numerous departments across the two forces. They’re skilled at working in diverse environments, from residential areas to open landscapes, from vehicles to commercial buildings, and even aircraft.”
These dogs are used to support searches carried out by specialist police teams, including Child Abuse Investigation Units, Priority Crime Teams, and Commercial Vehicle Units.
Mr Lawrence added:
“These dogs have supported a wide range of investigations, where they’ve uncovered critical evidence that would have been difficult to locate otherwise.”
The dogs will be deployed across multiple locations to help officers track down concealed digital devices, as criminals increasingly use advanced technology to avoid detection.