Press Release

RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has received a statewide technology award for developing a robust reporting application designed to improve the agency’s K-9 operations.

VADOC’s DINGO (Dog Information Governance & Operations) application was one of 17 award winners announced Wednesday by Governor Terry McAuliffe. The winners of the annual Governor’s Technology Awards were honored at a special ceremony at the Commonwealth of Virginia Innovative Technology Symposium (COVITS) in Richmond.

COVITS awards are designed to recognize improved government services delivery and efficiency. Members of VADOC‘s Corrections Technology Services Unit (CTSU) developed DINGO to help manage the Department’s statewide K-9 program, which includes more than 100 officers and 200 canines.

DINGO, a web-based custom solution built on the Microsoft .NET and SQL Server platform, replaced the K-9 program’s sometimes unwieldy, paper-based management system in July. DINGO produces quick searches and allows users to compile critical information such as training performance, certifications, and medical information. Work began on DINGO in May 2014.

"I am honored to work with this team," said VADOC’s Chief Information Officer Rick Davis. 'Each of them works hard each day employing technology expertise and dedication to improve public safety. We are thrilled to be getting inquiries from other states regarding how they might be able to use this system."

The award is CTSU’s third COVITS Award in the past seven years. In 2012, VADOC’s CTSU won the Governor’s Award for Teamwork.

More information on the VADOC can be found at www.vadoc.virginia.gov.