Brazil Carnival Queen Contender Doubles As Police Detective

Solving Crimes And Samba For Brazil's Detective Who Would Be Queen

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil -- Isabella Magacho is a 32-year-old police detective who wants to be queen.

On weekdays she investigates homicides, but in her free time she hones her skills as a samba dancer. She's hoping for the chance to become the reigning female monarch of this city's raucous Carnival celebration.

Chosen months in advance, the king and queen each win an $11,000 cash prize and the honor of embodying the spirit of Carnival at ceremonies before and during the celebration.

"Being a police officer is my profession," Magacho said. "But Carnival is my passion."

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