Today is the last day of Hispanic Heritage Month and to wrap it up, we’re also highlighting two, female Hispanic police officers. Both bring a unique perspective. PR Manager, Monica Quintero, has the story.
Katelyn Paredes is a new OPD Officer.
"To be completely honest, before I started the academy, I had never shot a handgun in my life. Had it not been for that training, I don’t think I would have such an accurate and good shot," said Officer Paredes. "It was nerve-wracking."
She's only been an Odessa Police Officer for nine months.
"It still kind of gives me the butterflies every time I go out there, it makes me nervous. But I feel assured knowing they taught me well," said Officer Parades. The night shoot is difficult, especially the further you are away from the target. You have to rely on your sight for that.
"I was in the military, so all my life I’ve been in a male-dominated field," said Sergeant Yuri Herrera.
Before becoming a Police Officer, she served in the Navy for ten years.
"I’ve always felt like I have to do a little bit more to prove that I can do the same thing that a man can do," said Sergeant Herrera.
She's been with OPD for eight years and believes this Police Department stands out from the rest.
"I think they focus on quality training, which is very important because they will go above and beyond to get somebody up to par," said Sergeant Herrera.
Her Hispanic roots help her better do her job in our community.
"The first thing that comes out of their mouth is, "Do you speak Spanish?" When I say yes, they transition and all they want to do is speak Spanish," said Sergeant Herrera.
An experienced officer and one just starting.
"It still kind of gives me the butterflies every time I go out there, it makes me nervous but. I feel assured knowing they taught me well," said Officer Parades.
They're two Hispanic women who are proud of where they came from and where they're going.
Their story was shot during their State Shooting Qualifications. Officers are required to qualify once a year.
For the story, CLICK HERE.