MEET LASD METROLINK BUREAU’S NEWEST K-9!
Please welcome Metrolink’s new K-9 Handler Deputy Anthony Velasco and his partner, Tina!
LASD/Metrolink Bureau is honored to have Deputy Velasco and Tina as part of our team. The Metrolink Bureau, currently deploys three K-9’s throughout approx 500 miles of train track.
Deputy Velasco and his partner are trained in explosives detection. The explosives detection K-9 teams combine excellent mobility and maneuverability with reliable detection through their natural born senses and experience. Their use today has evolved to include searching areas in response to bomb threats in aviation and mass transit systems. In addition, K-9 teams serve as general deterrents to any would-be terrorists and/or criminals.
Interesting Facts about K-9 Handlers: All Metrolink Bureau canine teams endure intense training at the TSA Explosives Detection Canine Handler Course at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.
From there, each handler and K-9’s have to be annually certified through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) National Explosive Detection Canine Training program (NEDCTP).
