The Nassau County Fire Marshal K-9 unit in Long Island has proven instrumental in combating arson and related crimes for over a decade. This specialized unit, composed of highly trained dogs, has successfully uncovered evidence in numerous cases, including significant breakthroughs in complex investigations.
Canine Expertise in Action
These dogs are capable of detecting over 300 accelerants and chemicals that many human investigators might overlook. Their keen sense of smell has helped identify arsonists and link them to crime scenes. Lt. Joseph Battaglia, who works with a dog named Pilot, shared a striking example of their capabilities. “Sometimes we’ll put a single drop of gasoline on a coffee stern and hide it in a whole football field. Pilot got it in seven seconds,” he explained. “They’re very good at what they do. They’re a good tool in our toolbox.”
One notable case involved Leah, a young K-9 who played a critical role in solving the death of James Coppola. After his lavish Centre Island home was destroyed by fire, Leah’s investigation revealed that his death was not accidental. “When the firemen came in, they didn’t even know that there was a body there,” said her handler, Matthew Kerin, a fire marshal investigator. Leah’s efforts led to the collection of 23 pieces of evidence, ultimately contributing to murder charges against the victim’s mistress, Jennifer Gross.
Recognition and Training
The work of the K-9 unit has garnered praise from various officials, including Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who emphasized the unit’s deterrent effect on potential arsonists. “Their expertise strengthens our investigative capabilities and acts as a powerful deterrent against criminals,” he stated. Leah, recognized nationally for her contributions, has been a part of the force for nearly a decade, often teaming up with Pilot, who assisted during the 10-alarm Marcal paper plant fire in New Jersey in 2019.
The dogs undergo rigorous training akin to that of elite athletes. They are monitored for weight and conditioned to work under various scenarios. “We have to monitor their weight,” Kerin noted. “They’re super friendly and very smart.” Their training includes food rewards, with handlers using a pouch to provide small doses of treats during exercises.
The K-9 unit regularly practices in the fire marshal’s spacious garage, where they simulate real-life situations. Kerin and Battaglia set up scenarios with burnt materials and hidden accelerants, allowing the dogs to demonstrate their skills.
The bond within the team is strong, with the recent addition of a new dog named Chuck. “Leah and him hit it off the bat. They’re like brother and sister,” Kerin remarked. This camaraderie extends beyond work, as the dogs are treated like family, often spending time with their handlers outside of duty hours.
The K-9s also enjoy a warm welcome at their facility in Westbury, where staff members often spoil them with treats. “Every office has a stash. The dogs know exactly where to go,” Kerin mentioned, highlighting the affectionate nature of the animals.
This specialized unit continues to serve as a vital resource in the fight against arson, proving that the combination of training and instinct in these dogs can lead to significant breakthroughs in investigations and, ultimately, justice.
