Charleston, South Carolina, Newark, New Jersey, Boston, Massachusetts - what do these cities have in common? During the past year, each of these cities and many others disbanded their mounted units. Despite their value in controlling large crowds, deterring crime and improving police-community relations, many cities have decided that they just could not afford to maintain their mounted units.
Fortunately, in Lancaster, a public-private partnership has kept the Mounted Patrol operating. The Lancaster Bureau of Police pays the salaries of officers who serve on the Mounted Patrol and the donations of individuals and businesses pay all other expenses. A similar arrangement also funds the Lancaster Canine Unit. These dogs provide protection for the officers they work with and are indispensible allies in the war on drugs.
The Columbia Riding Club has stepped up to support the Lancaster Mounted Patrol and Canine Unit. On Sunday, September 11, 2011, the Lancaster City Police Foundation and the Columbia Riding Club co-sponsored the 4th Annual Benefit Horse Show to raise funds for the Mounted and Canine Patrols. The show was great fun and featured exciting demonstrations by the officers, their equine and canine partners, and a brave volunteer wearing a bite suit.
The annual costs to maintain the Mounted Patrol and Canine Unit are significant. Routine operating annual expenses average $20,000 for the Mounted Patrol and $5,000 for the Canine Unit. Extraordinary veterinary expenses or the need to replace a horse or dog are a substantial addition to those costs. But the generosity of many has enabled the Mounted Patrol and Canine Unit to meet their needs and even to finance essential training for the officers and their animal partners.
We are looking forward to the 2012 show on September 9.
We hope to see you there!