International Plastics Introduces Scooby, a New K-9 Partner in the Fight Against Child Exploitation

For Immediate Release

(Greenville, SC – August 19th, 2024) – International Plastics, a family-owned leader in flexible packaging for over 60 years, is proud to announce its sponsorship of a new electronic detection K-9, Scooby, in collaboration with Defenders For Children (DFC). This marks a significant milestone in the companies' longstanding collaboration with DFC to combat child exploitation.

About the name:  With its sponsorship, International Plastics earned the naming rights to this exceptionally specialized trained K-9, who will join the ranks of many other dedicated K-9 teams working tirelessly to protect children. The company’s commitment to safeguarding young lives is evident through its continued support of DFC and its innovative approach to combating child exploitation, trafficking, and sexual abuse.

Like his fictional namesake, Scooby is a detective with a nose for solving crimes. His keen sense of smell is a powerful tool in the fight against child exploitation, helping to uncover hidden evidence and bring perpetrators to justice. Officer Scooby was formally introduced to the force and community at a press event on August 19, 2024, at the GCSO-ICAC offices.

“We are thrilled to welcome Scooby to the International Plastics family,” said Mark McClure, C.O.O. at International Plastics. “Our long-time partnership with DFC is rooted in a shared passion for protecting vulnerable children. By sponsoring Scooby, we are investing in a safer future for generations to come.”

Building on a Legacy of Protection:  International Plastics has been a dedicated supporter of Defenders of Children (DFC) since its founding in 2010, including sponsoring the organization’s first electronic detection K-9 named Queue. Building on this legacy, International Plastics is proud to announce its sponsorship of K-9 Officer Scooby, who will join the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit. Scooby will continue the vital role previously held by Queue, who is retiring after nine years of dedicated service.

Highly Trained Canine Partner:  DFC’s K-9s are instrumental in identifying hidden electronic devices that may contain evidence of child exploitation and criminal activity. These highly trained canines work alongside law enforcement to dismantle criminal networks and bring perpetrators to justice. So far, DFC has independently raised funds and placed 14 electronic detection K9s with law enforcement agencies throughout South Carolina and the southeast.

“Scooby is an invaluable addition to our team,” said Toni Clark, Executive Director and Founder of Defenders For Children. “With the generous support of International Plastics, we are able to expand our K-9 program and make a greater impact on the fight against child abuse. We are grateful for their commitment to our mission.”

Greenville County Sheriff's Office Appreciates the Support:  Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis expressed his gratitude: "Officer Queue has been a game-changer for our ICAC unit, helping us apprehend countless child predators. We're excited to welcome Scooby to the team and grateful for the support of International Plastics and Defenders for Children."

About International Plastics:  International Plastics is a Greenville, South Carolina-based, family-owned business with a 60-year legacy in providing flexible packaging solutions. Committed to sustainability and innovation, the company serves diverse customers in various industries worldwide. For more information, visit: interplas.com

About Defenders For Children:  Defenders for Children (DFC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving and protecting children from harm while stopping those who are hurting them. The organization works to prevent child abuse, sex trafficking, sextortion, and child exploitation through various initiatives, including the deployment of specialized K-9 units to assist law enforcement. For more information and how you can help place more K9s, please visit defendersforchildren.org. Registered Non-Profit: 27-3388956

About Greenville County Sheriff’s Office and the ICAC Unit:  The Greenville County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) is the primary law enforcement agency for Greenville County, South Carolina. Its Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit is dedicated to investigating computer-related crimes, particularly those involving child exploitation. The unit works closely with the South Carolina Attorney General's Office and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to combat child sexual exploitation. Equipped with advanced forensic tools, the ICAC unit plays a crucial role in protecting children from online predators and bringing offenders to justice.

See also: National Center for Missing & Exploited Children -  https://www.missingkids.org/cybertiplinedata