Philadelphia Gets Five Horses For Its Reconstituted Mounted Police Unit
RICHBORO, Pa. (CBS) - Philadelphia Police welcomed the department's newest recruits today -- the four-legged kind who will soon be a part of the reinstated Mounted Unit, which is expected to be up and running later this year.
Four of the five horses come from Newark, NJ, which recently disbanded its mounted patrols. The five horses are named Tiny Tim, Santiago, Johnny (right), Pat, and Stephen -- in honor of late officers Simpson, Nazario, Pawlowski, McDonald, and Liczbinski, all of whom have died in the line of duty since 2008.
Pennsylvania state senator Larry Farnese (standing at left in top photo) helped secure $100,000 in state funds for the reconstituted mounted unit.
"It is my hope, I'm sure the hope of many people here today, that these horses will keep the spirit and the service and the sacrifice of your loved ones alive for many, many, many years and I truly want to thank you," Farnese told family members of the slain officers who were on hand today.
The Philadelphia Police Foundation is hoping to raise $3 million for a new barn, equipment, and more horses.
"A lot of us grew up in the city or around the city and know the value of the mounted patrol in both crowd control and community relations," says foundation director Jeffrey Kolansky.
He says they initially hope to have between ten and twelve horses and officers in the unit.
The horses will be stabled at White Pine Farm, in Bucks County, until the permanent stable and headquarters are constructed.
The Philadelphia Police Foundation proudly supports the Philadelphia Police Department's efforts to bring back the Mounted Unit. If you'd like to donate to the Philadelphia Police Foundation, CLICK HERE
Reported by Brad Segall, KYW Newsradio 1060.
