Divisions | Mounted Unit Division
The Mounted Unit was formed in 1983. It started with 4 officers who were trained in New York by the New York City Mounted Patrol. In the past, the Unit has had as many as 6 officers assigned to it, plus a stable manager. Currently, the Unit consists of 5 officers, 5 horses, and the stable manager.
All the horses used by the Unit have been donated by private citizens and organizations or businesses such as the New Haven Chamber of Commerce, SNET, and Autotote. Their support has been instrumental in the development and maintenance of the New Haven Police Mounted Patrol Unit. The are cared for by a full-time Stable Manager, Chris Kramer.
The Mounted Unit augments foot, motorcycle, and bicycle patrol. In addition, it helps provide a unique police presence for special events including parades, concerts, and football games.
All new officers and horses receive approximately 8 weeks of training before they are assigned to their permanent beat. Training consists of classes and practical skills instruction on the care and training of the horse and rider, stable management, driver training of transportation vehicles, and mounted police tactics.
The New Haven Police Mounted Unit is still seeking equine donations. Age, color, gender, and breed are not factors. The only requirement is good temperament. There is no expectation to receive fully trained horses. The department has a training program for the horses and riders. It is important to realize that the horses used are constantly interacting with the public whether performing their daily assigned duties, visiting schools, or are a part of special events. They must have a calm nature because they often must work in heavy traffic as well as quiet neighborhoods, and are used at special events generating loud noise (e.g. fireworks, music, etc..).
If you have or know of a horse that could be donated to the New Haven Police Mounted Unit, please call the stable at 946-8243. All donations are tax deductible. Please be assured that our "equine partners" receive exceptional care and an extreme amount of TLC from their riders as well as their many friends and supporters.
The Mounted Unit Officers are:
- Officer Linda Mancinelli
- Officer Kim Roche
- Officer Richard LaRock
- Officer Darcia Siclari
