Meet Remy, Rockland County’s First ‘Cyber ​​Dog’ Trained to Detect Electronic Devices

NEW YORK — Rockland County’s new crime fighter has unique abilities and a name that honors a 9/11 hero.

Remy is a “cyber-dog”. His ultra-sensitive nose allows him to detect odors emanating from electronic devices. He can thus detect a USB key hidden under a table or a smartphone hidden under a radiator.

When Remy suddenly sits up, she lets Detective Tim Hayes know she’s onto something.

“There’s a certain chemical called triphenylphosphine oxide. It’s a flame retardant that they use on USB flash drives and memory sticks, for cell phones and microchips. So that’s what she’s ultimately looking for,” Hayes said.

Remy is certified to conduct these searches nationwide and is registered with the Department of Homeland Security. The black Labrador is one of 100 cyber dogs in the United States trained to find the electronic devices so often used in crimes.

Remy represents a step forward in the fight against dog crime, said Rockland County District Attorney Tom Walsh.

“I remember the old movies about hunting dogs that were used to track people, so I think it’s a natural progression that we use the innate abilities of our four-legged friends to help us investigate and prosecute crimes,” Walsh said.

Remy is named after a 9/11 hero

Remy’s red bandana is a tribute to his namesake.

Welles Remy Crowther was the legendary “Man in the Red Bandana” who died on September 11 after helping more than a dozen people escape from the South Tower.

Alison Crowther said her son would appreciate Remy and his owner’s dedication.

“Once he had a mission or a goal in mind, he didn’t give up until he achieved it. And that’s what he did on 9/11,” she said.

Today, 23 years later, a cyber dog bearing his name is working to keep Rockland County safe.

“It gives me a wonderful feeling,” Crowther said.