Task Force welcomes new Electronic Storage Detection K9 Rico

COLUMBUS, Ind. - The Bartholomew County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (BCICAC) is welcoming a new four-legged member to its team. Rico, an Electronic Storage Detection (ESD) K9, has been partnered with Detective Jarod Aspenson of the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office.

The duo recently completed specialized training at Jordan Detection K9 in Indianapolis and will soon begin assisting law enforcement agencies throughout south-central Indiana.

ESD K9s are specially trained to help law enforcement locate electronic storage devices during search warrants. These devices—including SD cards, external hard drives, USB drives, tablets, and other digital media—may contain critical evidence, including Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). The dogs are trained to detect a chemical compound commonly found in adhesives used in electronic storage devices.

Because these devices can be extremely small and easily concealed, locating them can be challenging for investigators. After officers complete an initial search, ESD K9s conduct a secondary search to help uncover hidden evidence that might otherwise go undetected.

ESD K9s have proven highly effective in investigations across the country. In addition to his detection capabilities, Rico – a golden lab mix – will serve as a comfort animal for survivors during investigations and court proceedings. Rico and Detective Aspenson will also assist neighboring jurisdictions with investigations and search warrants.

The BCICAC funded the ESD K9 project in partnership with Our Rescue, a global organization dedicated to combating human trafficking, child exploitation, and related crimes.

BCICAC combines the resources of the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office, Bartholomew County Prosecutor’s Office, and Columbus Police Department to investigate internet-facilitated crimes against children and proactively prevent child exploitation.

“Protecting children from exploitation remains one of the highest priorities of the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office,” said Chris Lane. “The production, possession, and distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material causes immeasurable harm to victims and perpetuates the ongoing exploitation of children. Our investigators are committed to aggressively pursuing those who prey upon children and holding offenders accountable."

The Bartholomew County ICAC Task Force invites the public to follow Rico and the rest of the team on social media for updates, community outreach events, and information about the task force’s ongoing efforts to protect children.