GCSO
Aug 20, 2025
News Release
(Gwinnett County, Ga., August 20, 2025) – The Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office Trafficking and Child Exploitation (TRACE) Unit investigates cases of human trafficking, gang activity, vice crimes, and the exploitation of minors. This specialized team collaborates with local, state, and federal agencies to hold offenders accountable and bring them to justice. Each year, TRACE conducts victim recovery operations and arrests individuals involved in crimes against children, leading to the reunification of families and the protection of vulnerable individuals throughout Gwinnett County.
To enhance its efforts, TRACE is now equipped with an Electronic Storage Detection (ESD) K-9, trained to detect storage devices that may contain Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). K-9 Dee's exceptional abilities have significantly strengthened the unit’s capacity to identify evidence, including concealed devices such as micro-SD cards, internal and external hard drives, and other forms of digital storage that might otherwise go unnoticed. Her skills increase the chances of discovering time-sensitive evidence, allowing the GCSO Special Investigations Section (SIS) to seize every opportunity to protect the public from the threat of sexual predators.
The Sheriff’s Office remains committed to deploying innovative strategies that enhance casework assistance for all regional law enforcement agencies. The work of K-9 Dee extends beyond the TRACE Unit, providing crucial support in criminal investigations throughout the metro Atlanta area. Field Operations Commander Assistant Chief Godfrey said, “K-9 Dee is a tremendous asset to the public, not only in addressing offenses targeting our most vulnerable populations, but also in supporting all aspects of criminal investigations with a focus on crimes against children.”
The Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office urges residents to remain alert and report suspicious activity. To submit a tip to the TRACE Unit, call 770.619.6655 or visit GwinnettCountySheriff.org.
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