Meet the CDCR K‑9s: Kilo, Lola hunt contraband

August 25, 2026

Meet CDCR K-9s Lola, at left, and Kilo, who is busy searching for contraband.

Kilo and Lola are two CDCR K-9s helping protect institution staff, the incarcerated population and the public by sniffing out contraband.

Every day, CDCR K-9s work alongside their handlers to help keep the institutions, staff and the public safe. From locating contraband to assisting with criminal investigations, these highly trained officers play an important role in maintaining safety across California’s institutions.

CDCR recognizes the dedication, loyalty and service of our K-9 partners.

This is the second installment of a series highlighting CDCR K-9s and their handlers.

>> Read the first installment.

Did you know? National Police K-9 Day is observed Sept. 1.

Kilo, the CDCR K-9 assigned to Folsom State Prison.

Kilo: Folsom State Prison

Handler’s name: Correctional Officer J. Brinkerhoff
Breed: Belgian Malinois
Age: 3
Institution: Folsom State Prison
Years of service: 2 years
Favorite reward: His tug
If your K-9 had a theme song it would be: “Down with the Sickness” by Disturbed
How they like to relax when they’re not working: Kilo enjoys lying around in the backyard at my house and chasing the occasional squirrel running across the fence line.
Fun fact: Kilo is known for his intense excitement to work. He is obsessed with the game of finding things.
Other information: Kilo’s nose has led to over 100 discoveries during his two years of service.

Lola: California Institution for Women

Handler’s name: Correctional Officer V. Penaloza
Breed: Labrador retriever
Age: 3
Institution: California Institution for Women
Years of service: 2 years
Favorite reward: Tug
If your K-9 had a theme song it would be: “Wrecking Ball” by Miley Cyrus
How they like to relax when they’re not working: Lola is all about self-care long baths followed by relaxing paw and leg massages.
Silly story: Lola makes it a mission to chase away pigeons everywhere she goes.
Other information: Lola truly loves what she does. She aways shows up ready to work, enthusiastic with endless drive, giving more than 100 percent to every task.

Lola, K-9 officer trading card style layout.

Compiled by Lisa Hamer,
Assistant to Undersecretary of Operations Jason D. Johnson
Story, graphics by Don Chaddock, Inside CDCR editor
Office of Public and Employee Communications

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Learn more about CDCR’s K-9 programs.