Meet Piper: Ottawa Police Service’s Newest K9 Detective

At just two years old, Piper is already making a big impact at the Ottawa Police Service. A black Labrador Retriever with a very specialized skill set, Piper is the newest member of the Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit, but she’s not your typical police dog.

From Rescue to Detection

Piper’s journey began in the United States with ICAN (the Indiana Canine Assistant Program) before moving on to Jordan Detection K9 in Indianapolis for specialized training in Electronic Storage Detection (ESD). Over four intensive months, Piper mastered the ability to detect the scent of electronic storage devices, including hard drives, USB sticks, SD cards, and even AirTags. Her training took place in a variety of real-world scenarios—mock apartments, abandoned hotels, vehicles, and outdoor areas—to ensure she could detect hidden devices no matter where offenders tried to conceal them.

Piper’s Handler

Detective Dominic Paykarimah traveled to Indianapolis for two weeks of intensive training with Piper, focusing not just on search techniques, but on building trust, communication, and a deep bond between handler and dog. This partnership is critical. Piper’s work relies on seamless cooperation and understanding with her handler in high-stakes situations.

Dual Roles: Investigator and Comforter

Piper’s role extends far beyond sniffing out hidden electronics. In the ICE Unit, she helps locate critical digital evidence that might otherwise go unnoticed, strengthening OPS’s ability to investigate and prevent child exploitation.

But Piper also has a softer side. She serves as a therapy dog for child victims, providing comfort and emotional support during interviews and challenging moments. Her presence also boosts morale across the service, offering stress relief and companionship to officers on demanding cases.

Community Ambassador

When she’s not assisting with investigations, Piper is on a mission to educate the public. Plans are underway for school visits and community events, where she will help teach kids and parents about online safety and responsible digital behavior.

A Team Effort

Piper’s work wouldn’t be possible without the support of OUR Rescue, a U.S.-based charity that helps law enforcement combat child trafficking and exploitation. OUR Rescue generously funded Piper’s acquisition, training, gear, and ongoing care, allowing OPS to bring this specialized capability into the fight against child exploitation.

Follow Piper’s journey on Instagram at @ESD_K9_Piper where she shares her life on and off duty.

With her unique combination of investigative skill, compassion, and community outreach, Piper represents a major advancement in the Ottawa Police Service’s efforts to protect children, support survivors, and strengthen the connection between law enforcement and the public.