K-9 Hilton is an ATF Explosives Detection Canine assigned to the Columbus Field Division with Special Agent Canine Handler (SACH) David R. McMullen. Her job is to find explosives, guns and ammunition. K-9 Hilton is also an ATF Search Enhanced Evidence K-9 (S.E.E.K.) able to work off leash up to 150 yards away from her handler and detect more than 19,000 distinct odors. K-9 Hilton started her training with the Puppies Behind Bars organization.

Recent Find

On February 16, 2022, a shooting occurred between two suspects at a liquor store parking lot in Dayton, OH. One of the suspects fled the scene on foot through an open field and wooded area. The suspect was later arrested after exiting the wooded area with no firearm in his possession. Although the Dayton Police Department officers located the shell casings, they were unable to find the crime gun and requested ATF’s assistance with the investigation.

Once they arrived at the crime scene, SACH McMullen gave the order and K-9 Hilton began searching off-leash in the open field and wooded area. After a few moments, K-9 Hilton found a 9mm Beretta pistol hidden in a tire under a mattress at the incident location. Local police used the evidence to charge the suspect.