Mounted Patrol

BSO's Mounted Patrol is effective in highly congested areas and when the establishment of police presence is important. The Mounted Patrol is a favorite with children.

Deputies on horseback still have an important place in many law enforcement agencies; frequently, a mounted deputy can access areas where traditional police vehicles cannot due to space limitations or congestion. BSO continues the tradition of deputies on horseback with its Mounted Patrol.

The unit handles regular patrol assignments throughout the county and supports special initiatives that call for a mounted deputy. BSO's Mounted Patrol has been used for a variety of community policing functions including recovery of prisoner escapees and the location of lost children and other individuals. In addition, the unit provides a unique presence at community events, in parades and at ceremonial/honor guard occasions. The unit also assists neighboring agencies and municipalities upon request.

BSO's Mounted Patrol is located in a rural area of southwestern Broward County. The 12-stall stable features 4 grooming stations, tack and feed rooms and administrative offices. Eleven horses (quarter horses, thoroughbreds, Percherons, Clydesdale and Belgians) and 7 deputies, an auxiliary rider and a mounted supervisor comprise the unit.

Unit personnel must be certified and routinely train and work with other mounted units within Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Along with equine desensitizing drills and obstacle courses, emphasis is placed on crowd control exercises and pedestrian management. The Mounted Patrol is also part of the Field Forces Unit and responds to any civil disturbance or major emergency when directed by the Sheriff.

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