For Immediate Release
| PR #: | 1600023 |
| Date Issued: | Apr 07, 2016 - 8:16am |
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Sheriff's Office prepares to saddle up new Mounted Horse Unit |
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| CONTACT: | Bob Harmon Washoe County Sheriff's Office Office 775-785-6235 Cell 775-722-5517 |
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is enhancing its future by reviving a tradition from the past, the mounted horse unit.
Sheriff Chuck Allen announced today that the Sheriff's new Mounted Horse Unit is scheduled to begin operation this spring.
"Deputies on horseback are a unique benefit to the Sheriff's Office and the public," Sheriff Allen said. "You can expect to start seeing them at some of our major community events such as the Reno Rodeo, Hot August Nights, and Red, White and Tahoe Blue in addition to local parks and open space patrols. I encourage you to the take time to get to know the deputies and equine members of this unit, and show them your support for their service."
Mounted units provide extra safety at venues where law enforcement visibility and mobility are important, but vehicle use is restricted. They help to increase public security at events involving large crowds and help to deter crime by their very presence.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office Mounted Horse Unit will be able to deploy a team of six mounted deputies into service as needed. Deputies provide their own horse and mounted unit functions are in addition to the deputy's normal duty assignment. Horse and rider must also complete required Nevada Peace Officer Standards and Training courses before they are able to be utilized.
How you can help
At this time, the Sheriff's Mounted Horse Unit is asking for public support to help cover the cost of uniform tack, riding helmets, blankets and other accessories necessary to the unit. Donations may be made to the Washoe County Honorary Deputy Sheriff's Association (HMU) or by contacting Lt. Jeff Clark at (775) 737-8801.
photos: Washoe County Sheriff's Deputies who have expressed an interest in being part of the Sheriff's new Mounted Horse Unit introduce their horses to the Sheriff's headquarters on Parr Boulevard on Sunday, April 3, 2016.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.