FDLE Mourns the Loss of ESD K-9 After Battle with Cancer

JACKSONVILLE – The FDLE is reporting the loss of their first Electronic Storage Detection (ESD) canine. Officials say Maple passed away yesterday following a battle with cancer.

FDLE spokesperson Gretl Plessinger writes, "Maple began her work in 2019 assigned to FDLE's Pensacola Region. At the time, she was one of three ESD canines statewide and the only ESD canine in Florida's Panhandle. Earlier this year, Maple and her handler, Special Agent Supervisor Stephanie Cassidy, transferred to FDLE Jacksonville."

Plessinger says Maple was deployed more than 100 times and collected approximately 200 pieces of evidence.

FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass said, "Maple loved her work and her FDLE family. During her career she visited thousands of school children, helped raise money for local charities and was the highlight at FDLE and community events."

FDLE Deputy Commissioner Matt Walsh said, "Maple served with the highest standards, sniffing out electronics while providing love and support to everyone. Rest easy Maple, you are a pioneer for FDLE. All ESD dogs owe you a debt of gratitude for being the first."

ESD K-9 are used to detect triphenylphosphine oxide (TPPO), which is found in circuit boards to prevent overheating. They can also detect hydroxycyclohexyl phenyl ketone (HPK), which is found in CDs and DVDs. ESD K-9 can help law enforcement solve cybercrimes by locating devices that contain those elements.