U.S. Marshals Introduce Explosives Detection Canine “Ave”

Albuquerque, NM - Deputy U.S. Marshal Todd White and U.S. Marshal Service Explosives Detection Canine “Ave” graduated from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) National Canine Training Operations Center’s canine handler basic course in Front Royal, VA on August 12, 2016.

Having completed the 10-week class and learning the necessary skills to deploy an explosives detection canine in operational environments, Deputy Marshal White and his partner “Ave”, a 16 month old black Labrador Retriever, are the only ATF-certified explosive detection canine unit in the State of New Mexico.

“Ave” was originally part of the Guide Dog Foundation prior to being selected to participate in the ATF Explosive Detection Training Program “Ave” is capable of searching for more than 19,000 explosive odors, including homemade and peroxide-based explosives in the field. The certification consists of five training and evaluation area: Odor Recognition Test, Transportation, Article, Field & Mission. The Odor Recognition Test identifies up to 20 different explosive odors.

The Explosive Detection Canine Program (EDCP) teams serve on the front line of America’s War on Terror. These very effective mobile teams can quickly rule out the presence of dangerous materials that may present a threat. Just as important, they can quickly rule out the presence of dangerous materials in unattended packages, structures or vehicles mainly in government spaces under the auspices of the U.S. Marshals Service.

The ATF provides the canine, initial training, equipment, in-service training and re-certifications to the USMS. The ATF Canine Training and Operations Support Branch (CTOSB) continue to provide canine and explosives-related support throughout program participation. Details include USMS Judicial Conferences, high-threat trials and search warrants. Upon request, the USMS provides support to the ATF CTOSB detail. The USMS personnel have assisted ATF with National Security Special Events, including Super Bowls, Republican and Democratic Conventions and local field division requests.