West Midlands Police’s first digital detection dog retires
The trailblazing sniffer dog helped uncover crucial digital evidence and secure major convictions in its eight years of service
West Midlands Police’s first digital detection dog, PD Chip, is retiring after an eight-year career uncovering vital evidence in major investigations.
The eight-year-old chocolate Sprocker Spaniel, who qualified in 2018, has worked alongside handler PC Sarah Hawkins throughout his career, making hundreds of finds including mobile phones, SIM cards and tracking devices.
Chip played a key role in securing convictions against dangerous offenders. In one case linked to an attempted murder, he located a phone hidden in an attic, helping secure an 18-year sentence.
In other searches, he found devices concealed in ovens and beneath furniture, as well as tracking devices hidden on vehicles.
His work has helped demonstrate the growing importance of digital detection dogs, trained to locate hidden technology even in the most unlikely places.
In recent months, Chip has been passing on his skills to a new recruit, Q, a 17-month-old Springer Spaniel who has already made her first find.
PC Sarah Hawkins, Chip’s handler, said: “I will really miss working with Chip, it’s been an honour to go on this incredible journey with him as the first Digi Dog. He leaves some big paw prints to fill!
“He really is a special dog and has the best scent skills. I’m sure he will put his skills to good use during his retirement to sniff out all his favourite toys and treats.”