Man's best friend helps Wisconsin Department of Justice in criminal cases

WAUKESHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Law enforcement in Wisconsin is putting man's best friend to work.

Several counties throughout our area: Racine, Kenosha, Mount Pleasant and Waukesha, are using dogs to sniff out electronic devices that criminals may use to hide illegal activities.

The program is a part of the Wisconsin Department of Justice Criminal Investigation Electronic Storage division.

The program has been in the Wisconsin Department of Justice arsenal since 2018.

The dogs are primarily used to catch internet child predators.

Canine Kozak, along with his handler, were the first of their team in Wisconsin.

"Kozak is trained to respond to a particular scent from an adhesive that’s present in electronic storage devices," said Attorney General Josh Kaul.

Since the inception, the program has grown, adding four more K9 detectors throughout the state.

"Having a K9 that can respond to that scent and detect those devices, can help ensure that people who are committing crimes against children are held accountable," said Kaul.

The cost to employ Kozak is estimated to be around $11,000, money state leaders say is well spent.

"These kinds of investments are very effective usage of taxpayer dollars, because our special agents are out there working to solve cases themselves, working with local law enforcement around the state to solve cases and again to make our community safer," said Kaul.

To learn more about the canine unit click the link here.