It’s just a surgery on the nose.
A talented dog from Long Island has been instrumental in apprehending numerous arsonists who thought they were in the clear. One such case involved a lengthy investigation into a suspicious murder.
The K-9 unit of the Nassau County Fire Marshal has been a crucial asset for over a decade. These dogs can detect more than 300 types of accelerants and substances that might elude firefighters and investigators, which helps keep criminals at the scene.
“Sometimes we put a drop of gasoline on Coffee’s back and hide it around the soccer field,” explained Lt. Joseph Battaglia, who has a dog named Pilot. “The pilots figured it out in seven seconds. They’re exceptional at what they do—a vital tool for us.”
In 2018, a new dog named Leah had a significant role in solving a case when she discovered that the death of 75-year-old James Coppola wasn’t accidental; his luxurious home on Center Island had caught fire.
“When firefighters arrived, they didn’t even know there was a body present,” noted her officer, Nassau Fire Marshal Detective Matthew Kerin.
“They eventually uncovered half of the bodies due to how severe the fire was.”
Kerin enlisted Leah to sniff out the scene around the debris to confirm foul play. “She helped us gather 23 pieces of evidence,” he recalled, praising the Labrador retriever’s skill.
Thanks to Leah’s keen sense of smell, the victim’s mistress, Jennifer Gross from Long Beach, was charged with murder. She was found guilty of killing Coppola and then setting the fire to cover it up.
“It took us about eight months to track her down, but those 23 pieces of evidence really helped narrow down our investigation,” Kerin mentioned.
This instance is just one of many where the K-9 unit has aided in the pursuit of justice, often receiving accolades from Nassau’s County Executive Bruce Blakeman.
“Their skills enhance our investigative capacity and act as a strong deterrent against arson,” said the Republican, who is running for governor this year.
Rea, recognized nationally for her talents, spent nearly a decade with the unit, often partnering with pilots responding to the massive 10-alarm fire at the Marcal paper mill in New Jersey in 2019.
“She was the best companion I’ve ever had,” Kellyn said of Leah, who joins her family and other dogs at home every night.
There’s that rascal among them.
Job Woof recently retired, receiving a grand farewell from the fire department, but the team already adopted a replacement named Chuck, who currently lives with Kellyn too.
“I end up spending more time with Leah and Chuck than with my own family,” Kerin joked, mentioning that Leah still accompanies Chuck and the other dogs to the office daily.
“First thing every morning, they’re at the door ready to go to work.”
This trio originally came from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) program and have been trained like elite athletes by their handlers in Nassau.
“We need to keep an eye on their weight,” Kerin said, adding, “They’re very friendly and intelligent.”
The dogs receive food rewards, munching on small amounts from a pouch worn by their handlers while performing various tasks.
“They act differently and get into work mode when they’re ready,” Battaglia said. “As soon as the pilot sees my food patch, he gets excited and wants to locate any ignitable liquid.”
The dogs prove their abilities through regular exercises and simulations in a spacious garage that also stores fire department equipment.
Kerin and Battaglia set up burnt clothes, wooden blocks, and even accessories like wallets, placing tiny drops of accelerant between them for the dogs to smell immediately.
Their bond is undeniable, and they welcomed Chuck into their pack.
“Leah and Chuck hit it off instantly. It’s like they’re siblings,” Kellyn mentioned.
The dogs are a cherished addition to the Westbury facility, where several Nassau County agencies are glad to spoil them.
A dog’s heart is just as adept at sniffing out treats as it is on the job.
“Every office has its desk and hiding spots. The dogs know exactly where to go for some treats,” Kerin shared, noting that Fire Marshal Michael Uttaro is an easy target.
“They’re adorable, affectionate, and can turn on you in an instant,” Uttaro admitted.
