difficult to access by conventional patrol methods.
The officer riding high on horseback is able to see and be seen, thereby acting as a crime deterrent. The horse is the perfect crowd control tool because it provides the officer with the ability to move into, through and around a crowd in a safe manner for both the officer and the public.
The Mounted Patrol Unit remains extremely popular with local jurisdictions which request the unit's participation in various holiday parades and community events. The police mounted officer acts as an ambassador for the police department in that people view the mounted officer as more approachable. The horse helps break down the wall between the police and the public which helps improve police/community relations.
Another aspect of the mounted unit is education. The Mounted Unit visits schools, scout groups and day camps in the county speaking to children about police work on horseback. The students always find the visits fascinating and interesting. The unit has been requested by local departments to assist with major events, such as a recent visit by the president to Union Township, protest demonstrations, concerts, festivals, and parades. |
