Bomb Detection K-9 Section

The Bomb Detection Canine (K9) Section is a specialized group of Explosive Detection Canine (EDC) handlers, and K9 partners, whose mission is to deter and detect the introduction of explosive devices in transportation systems, public events and venues within City of Los Angeles and the Metropolitan Transit Authority.

“All officers assigned to the section attend a 12-week EDC course sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) National Explosives Detection Canine Team Program (NEDCTP) at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.”

The LAPD began participating in the NEDCTP in 1997. The section operates in a partnership with the TSA and Los Angeles World Airport Police to provide security at the Los Angeles International Airport. The section also works with the LAPD Bomb Squad, providing an invaluable asset to the Los Angeles community in responding to calls throughout the city.

The use of highly trained EDC teams is a proven deterrent against terrorist threats directed towards transportation systems, critical infrastructures, public events and venues. The EDC teams are deployed to conducted protective sweeps for explosives and serve as a visible deterrent against possible terrorist acts.

The Explosive Detection Canine Teams are available to respond seven days a week to calls throughout the city. The EDC teams are available at the airport and in the City for the following types of duties;

• Bomb threat incident;
• Searches for secondary devices during Bomb Squad responses or other large-scale operations where the need for such sweeps are anticipated such as post-blast incidents, large evacuation incidents where crowds may be targeted, and Command Post locations;
• Special events;
• Dignitary protection details;
• Search warrants; and
• Unattended items/vehicles (suspicious items/vehicles are handled by Bomb Squad)

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