Stony Point, NY — Willow Grove Elementary students received a lesson in courage, community safety, and cutting-edge law enforcement when K9 Remy, Rockland County’s first Certified Electronics Detection Dog, paid a visit alongside her handler, Detective Tim Hayes of the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office.
Unlike traditional K9s trained to detect drugs or explosives, Remy has a unique skill: she can sniff out the chemical compounds in electronic devices. Her training allows her to locate items such as laptops, cell phones, USB drives, and SD cards — critical tools investigators often need in cases involving child exploitation, possession of illegal material, and other crimes where digital evidence may be hidden.
During the visit, Hayes demonstrated Remy’s skills, showing students how the highly trained dog can uncover electronics even when they are deliberately concealed.
“K9 Remy’s visit gave children a chance to learn about teamwork, community safety, and the important role law enforcement K9s have in the community,” said Chief of Detectives Deirdre Smith.
Remy is also a dog with a powerful namesake. She is named in honor of Welles Remy Crowther, the Rockland County native and “Man in the Red Bandana,” remembered as a hero for saving lives during the September 11 attacks.
District Attorney Tom Walsh said the name is fitting: “We are proud to have K9 Remy as part of our team. Her work helps ensure that those who commit crimes against children are held accountable.”
One of only a few hundred electronics detection dogs in the United States, K9 Remy serves as both a symbol of courage and a tool in the pursuit of justice — and, as Willow Grove students learned, a beloved ambassador for the importance of safety and service.