Tutty, the Division of Criminal Investigation's (DCI) Accelerant Detection Canine, was born into a life of public service in August 2016. Tutty was initially destined to become a service dog through the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind.When it was determined that Tutty was not a suitable match for the Guide Dog Foundation, he was assessed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and passed the initial screening process to be trained as an Accelerant Detection Canine. Tutty then went to Front Royal, Virginia where the ATF Canine Training Center is located. DCI Special Agent Tiffany Ince, selected to be the next DOJ Accelerant Detection Canine handler, joined Tutty at the ATF Canine Training Center on October 30, 2017, for six weeks of intensive daily training. Upon completion of their training and receiving their certification, Special Agent Ince and Tutty returned to Wisconsin to start their first day in the office on December 11, 2017. Tutty continues to train with Special Agent Ince twice a day, seven days a week, and responds with Special Agent Ince to fire origin and cause investigations. When Tutty is off-duty, he spends his time with Special Agent Ince, just like any other family pet.
Did you know?
According to its website, the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind began in 1946 with the mission to provide guide dogs and training, free of charge, to people who were blind or visually impaired. Since 1946, the Guide Dog Foundation has trained and placed guide and service dogs to provide increased independence and enhanced mobility to people who are blind, have low vision or have other disabilities. They’ve also expanded their program to provide dogs to veterans.
There are currently 55 active ATF Accelerant Detection Canines across the United States. Learn more about ATF accelerant and explosives detection canines.