Our Mission

The mission of the K-9 Unit is to assist the Los Santos Police Department and its Subdivisions in their efforts of crime prevention and detection, criminal apprehension, officer safety, and service to the community. The K-9 unit archives this with the safe and effective use of a very powerful tool, the police canine. K-9 officers will assist with the help of our K-9 Partners, in the identification of illegal narcotics, assist in the recovery of missing persons, and capture of fugitive suspects among other important tasks. 

Prerequisites for Joining the K9 Subdivision

Before joining the K-9 Subdivision, all Officers will need to first apply through the subdivision application, pass a written exam with a 80% or higher, and then have to go through a training course.
Now, before applying, the following prerequisites must be met, otherwise you will automatically be denied.
- Must be a Officer II with a minimum of 30 logged duty hours .
- Must have no strikes.
- Must be active and well mannered in patrols.

Section 1 - K-9 Subdivision Structure

• K-9 Officer

• Senior K-9 Officer

• K-9 Subdivision Commander

K-9 Officer

K-9 Officers are the basic role in which upon completed training, they will begin a 15 day probationary phase in which they will be monitored for patrolling as a K-9 officer (regardless of the dog or handler). This will ensure that all policies and procedures are followed to the extent of the SOP and policies and procedures. IF an officer fails the 15 day probationary period, they will be removed from K-9 subdivision and will have to reapply after 30 days.

Senior K-9 Officer

Senior K-9 Officer are the K9 subdivisions training officers or TO’s. In addition to the training portion, these officers should be looked towards for guidance and help when needed. They will also assist with the Commander in policies and regulations when needed

K-9 Commander’s Role

The K-9 Subdivision Commander is to run the subdivision and coordinate standard operating procedures for all K-9 Officers assigned to his subdivision. They will also help interpret the standard operating procedure when it is being questioned by members. The K-9 Subdivision Commander's role also is to make sure the K-9 Unit Members are well informed with new changes happening, maintain discipline and handle departmental policy and issues.

Section 2 - K9 Uniform

Officers assigned to the K-9 unit are expected to conform to all department policies pertaining to uniform appearance. Due to the nature of the specialized duties they perform, K-9 Officers are issued, over and above standard issue, a blue shirt utility uniform. Seasonally appropriate uniforms will be worn at all times.