During the process of a search
mission, there may be times when a traditional law enforcement vehicle is
unable to reach an area. Therefore, as your Sheriff I feel it's important to have
a mounted organization team that could be used for those situations. I also
wanted a mounted unit that embodied the Sheriff’s Department’s community
policing vision and passion; while at no cost to us or the community.
The Richland County
Sheriff's Department two different mounted teams: the Sheriff’s Posse and the Mounted
Patrol Unit. These teams of specially trained officers and volunteers offer the
community specialized services to help keep you safe.
The Mounted Patrol Unit
was established to participate in community activities, assist with crime
reduction, and provide an effective crowd control at special events. You have
likely seen our Mounted Unit at sporting and community events.
"When a citizen calls
with a concern and they need help I know how important it is to be there for
them. I want people to know they can depend on us no matter what," says
Senior Deputy Margaret Fisher- a 5 year member of the Richland County Sheriff's
Department. Fisher started at the Sheriff's Department as a Reserve Deputy and eventually
became member of the Mounted Patrol Unit.
"People have so much respect for horses- they love to see them in the community. When we use them for crowd control it makes a big difference and it's the best way to observe situations and respond to problems in overcrowded areas faster than a standard unit."
Mounted police officers like Fisher have other responsibilities within the Department. Fisher is a full-time employee with Community Action Team (C.A.T.). She is one of 6 members.
The horses used in the Mounted Units are owned and cared for by the individual members. Their primary focus is the “3 C’s” of police work: Crowd Control, Crime Deterrence and Community Policing.
"Initially getting
involved was a way to encourage me to really enjoy the 2 horses I own,"
says Michael Privett, D.V.M. He's the Director of Mounted Operations and oversees
both the Mounted Unit and the Sheriff's Posse.
"I enjoy it. The people
are fun to be around," says Privett. "This group is one that I am
proud to be associated with."
The Richland County
Sheriff’s Posse was establish as a group of volunteer
riders that are available to the Sheriff’s Department when mounted searches
would be beneficial. Posse members also own, feed and pay for vet care for the
horses.
Joining the team is
initiated through an application and interview process and each step has
criteria that must be met before advancing. Members learn search techniques,
first aid, tracking, wilderness survival, evidence handling and equine first
aid- among other coaching.
I encourage people
who are team players and possess leadership abilities to join our Mounted Units.
It takes patience because search and rescue work can sometimes be tedious; members
of these Units will also occasionally work with a victim’s family and friends.
As your Sheriff, I strive
to create "Unity in the Community" by providing well-trained officers
and volunteers for programs like our Mounted Units.
The Sheriff’s Posse
trains on a regular basis with the Mounted Patrol. Training sessions for the
posse are held weekly, rain or shine, and incorporate search techniques
including, first aid, pubic relations, tracking, wilderness survival, and evidence
handling. This training not only increases our level of proficiency and
confidence, but also increases our ability to concentrate on the job when there
are distractions.
For more
information please visit our website at www.rcsd.net.
