About the K-9 Unit
The Inglewood Police Department K-9 Unit began in 1976 with six dogs. Currently, the Department provides funding for six K-9 Teams. The Unit maintains a high level of proficiency with their K-9 teams because of the extensive training they undergo. Each handler/K-9 team must complete many hours of training before being certified by a Departmental trainer to enter service. Once certified, each team continues to receive additional training both on and off-duty. Each team must also pass a yearly certification by the State of California Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission.
Training
Our K-9 Teams training consist of weekly training at our Department, monthly training with K-9 Teams from other jurisdictions, and monthly training with our SWAT Team. The K-9 Teams are used for locating suspects, searching for drugs, searching buildings, and other uses.
Personnel
The K-9 Unit is currently made up of one Lieutenant, one Sergeant, and 6 handlers. The breeds are chosen due to their proven working heritage and success in law enforcement circles.
Shifts
K-9 Officers are assigned to the Office of Patrol Services and work a variety of shifts to ensure that their services are available to officers responding to calls for service in the City. Each K-9 Team is also on-call 24 hours a day to assist when the need arises.
Community Involvement
The K-9 Unit participates in many civic events such as providing K-9 demonstrations for groups, organizations, and schools. The Unit is very proud of their accomplishments which include numerous achievements and awards in K-9 competitions.