Inside the LAPD K9 Unit: Officer Maricela Corral’s Story
The Los Angeles Police Department honors Women's Heritage Month with K9 Officer Maricela Corral. Corral talks about her career path, influences, and current role within the LAPD.
Following training at the Police Academy and working on patrol, Corral worked in the Mounted Police Unit, which she credits with building a foundation in animal handling. She has now served six years in the K9 Unit.
Corral talks about the strong women who have been role models in her life including her mother, who became the family's sole provider, and her sister who has served in the LAPD for over 20 years. Witnessing her sister and brother-in-law flourish in the department solidified her decision to join the LAPD, as she felt the department offered unmatched opportunities.
Women's Heritage Month is vital for young girls who lack female role models. Corral believes that as a female officer, she has a role to play in helping to expand the horizons of young women regarding their potential career paths.
Corral's partner on LAPD duty is a seven-year-old Belgian Malinois named Dart. While acknowledging the dangers of their work—which involves searching for felony suspects—she highly values the strong bond and partnership she shares with her dog.
To young women considering a career in law enforcement who may feel uncertain, Corral offers a simple message: "Go for it".
#LACityResidents
Following training at the Police Academy and working on patrol, Corral worked in the Mounted Police Unit, which she credits with building a foundation in animal handling. She has now served six years in the K9 Unit.
Corral talks about the strong women who have been role models in her life including her mother, who became the family's sole provider, and her sister who has served in the LAPD for over 20 years. Witnessing her sister and brother-in-law flourish in the department solidified her decision to join the LAPD, as she felt the department offered unmatched opportunities.
Women's Heritage Month is vital for young girls who lack female role models. Corral believes that as a female officer, she has a role to play in helping to expand the horizons of young women regarding their potential career paths.
Corral's partner on LAPD duty is a seven-year-old Belgian Malinois named Dart. While acknowledging the dangers of their work—which involves searching for felony suspects—she highly values the strong bond and partnership she shares with her dog.
To young women considering a career in law enforcement who may feel uncertain, Corral offers a simple message: "Go for it".
#LACityResidents