Wilmette Police Department Welcomes Gizmo, a Unique K-9

The Wilmette Police Department has a new member, Gizmo, a unique K-9 trained to detect electronics for criminal investigations. Gizmo is one of only four K-9s in Illinois, and roughly 100 in the U.S., with this skill.

Gizmo, a two-year-old Golden Retriever-Labrador mix, joined the department in June and also serves as a comfort dog. This dual role helps people feel calmer in stressful situations. Sam Walker, a digital forensic analyst and Gizmo’s handler, shared that his family was eager for a dog, making Gizmo’s arrival timely.

“My kids wanted a dog and it worked out pretty well,” said Walker. “I do a lot of digital forensics, so it was just a natural fit.”

Initially bred as a service dog, Gizmo underwent obedience training but didn’t graduate due to pulling on the leash. He then joined the Jordan Detection K-9 Electronic Storage Detection program in Indianapolis. This program trains dogs to detect chemical compounds in electronics.

After completing the program, Walker attended a two-week handler certification course at the National Computer Forensic Institute in Alabama. He noted that Labradors have an excellent sense of smell, making them suitable for electronic detection. Gizmo can locate electronics like laptops, USB drives, and Micro SD cards.

The Jordan Detection agency states that electronics detection K-9s aid in recovering evidence in child exploitation, terrorism, and white-collar crime cases. Their keen scent abilities allow them to locate devices even damaged or hidden within debris, boosting success rates in data recovery.

Wilmette Police Chief Michael Robinson explained that Gizmo responds to the smell of a specific chemical in electronic adhesives. Gizmo has successfully assisted neighboring police agencies in locating evidence.

The U.S. Secret Service covered financial aspects related to Gizmo, including costs for training and travel. The village covers Gizmo’s food and care, which costs about $2,400 annually.

Gizmo’s comfort role reduces anxiety and stress for police officers and the public, including victims, children, and families in crisis. Walker mentioned Gizmo’s positive impact when people are nervous and find comfort in petting the dog.

“The social work office is right next to mine,” he said. “If they have someone who’s coming in and they like dogs or are a little bit nervous about talking, I can bring Gizmo in and they will pet him, which relaxes them and lets them talk through whatever they’re dealing with.”

Gizmo will attend community events throughout the year. Chief Robinson remarked on Gizmo’s growing presence as a resource. People are already inquiring about the dog.

“He’s really coming into his own in terms of being a resource for the police officers and staff,” said Robinson. “People are already asking ‘Where’s Gizmo?’”