LEBANON, Ind. — The Boone County Sheriff's Office has a unique vehicle in its fleet. A repurposed ambulance is another tool they use to protect children from getting exploited on the internet.
"We are really the last chance they got," said Sgt. Leon Golladay, "the only voice some of these children have,".
To speed up investigations, the department created the Digital Forensic Unit last year, giving them the ability to analyze electronics and interview people on-scene.
"As we are collecting devices or the search warrant on the scene, we can either say, 'Yes, this device needs to go with us for a further investigation,' or we can say, 'No, this can stay here,'" Golladay explained, "'cause in some cases, these devices might belong to a family member who's in no way, shape or form related to the accusation we are investigating."
The unit is equipped with two forensic work stations and an interview room. The work done inside is a team effort, but finding and renovating the ambulance was a passion project for Golladay.
"It's more than just helping people. I want to help shape the future in the community and make it a better place for the generations coming up behind us," said Golladay.
As times change, he said it's important for law enforcement agencies to stay open minded to different approaches while investigating crimes.
"You have to plan ahead and anticipate the growth and the different types of people and the different kind of crimes that are going to come to our community from others' community for whatever reason," said Golladay.
He said it's all about removing barriers to getting answers and justice.
"It just gives us more confidence in going forward and keeps us positive that we are doing the right thing. We know where we are going with this. We are going to get resolution as quickly as we can," said Golladay.
The total amount spent on the Digital Forensic Unit was less than the cost of a brand new patrol car.