MADISON –Madison Police Department has welcomed its newest recruit, Bear the dog. Bear is expertly trained in locating electronics and calming victims experiencing trauma.

An anonymous donation paid for Bear’s acquisition in full, along with his complete training and equipment. The donation and sponsorship of Bear was brought to Madison Police Department by the non-profit organization Operation Underground Railroad Rescue or O.U.R. Rescue. This organization supports law enforcement agencies with the fight against child exploitation and human trafficking.

With his training, Bear can detect and locate electronic devices. This skill will aid investigators, especially during cases involving crimes against children and other major crimes.

Bear’s arrival could not come at a more crucial time as Madison Police Department joins the fight with Internet Crimes Against Children or ICAC task force. His keen nose can detect hidden electronics such as thumb drives, laptops and hard drives, tracking devices and even micro Secure Digital or SD and Subscriber Identity Module or SIM cards.

In addition, the Jordan Detection K9 company has certified Bear to serve as a therapy dog. Bear can apply trauma-informed practices on scene.

“Many child exploitation criminals think they can beat the system with a good hiding spot for evidence. We want them to know that Bear is a formidable weapon against their crimes,” Madison Police Chief Johnny Gandy said.

“We are incredibly grateful to the anonymous donor for supporting Bear through his training,” Gandy said. “Our community is safer with his service.”

Detective Ted Thiele serves as Bear’s handler. Thiele and Bear work together, live together and serve the community as a team. Unlike other working K9s on duty, Bear is trained so people can approach him on the job.

“Bear can bring down the bad guys but also provide comfort to victims,” Thiele said. “His impact is invaluable in helping to protect and rescue our most vulnerable population. Bear’s skills are a critical tool to help us investigate and bring criminals to justice while also making a social-emotional impact on those around him.”

Madison Police Department is dedicated to the fight against child exploitation, Gandy said. Bear and Thiele will visit the community to educate groups on the canine’s inspirational work. Bear happily earns well-deserved attention and belly rubs daily as he serves the City of Madison and the North Alabama region.