The Knoxville Police Department is in the early stages of launching a Mounted Patrol Unit, a full-time unit that will patrol downtown Knoxville and special events on horseback.
The KPD recently purchased two three-year-old Percherons from Texas-based Mounted Patrol International LLC. The horses were purchased for around $39,000 with federal grant funding, which included the cost of transportation. The horses arrived in Knoxville on Monday afternoon and are currently being housed at an off-site farm.
“This project has been in the works for months, and I am thrilled to see it finally come to fruition,” Chief of Police Paul Noel said. “Mounted Patrol Units have proven effective at improving community safety as well helping to connect officers to the residents they serve. I can’t wait to see the positive effect this unit will have on our department.”
“I am excited to add a Mounted Patrol Unit to our City’s public safety efforts,” said Mayor Indya Kincannon. “We are seeing great results with our strategies, and this will enhance our efforts to keep downtown safe and inviting for all.”
While this project is nearing the final stages, the KPD is not expected to officially start any mounted patrol operations until at least March of 2025.
Earlier this month, the KPD sought internal candidates to take part in the 150-hour Mounted Operations training course. Once interested internal candidates have completed their training, the KPD anticipates initially assigning two officers to the Mounted Patrol Unit in a full-time capacity with others serving on the unit in a part-time capacity. Those selected to take part in the Mounted Operations training will begin their training in early 2025.
Numerous law enforcement agencies across the country have Mounted Patrol Units, including the Metro Nashville Police Department, the Lexington (KY) Police Department, and the Charleston (SC) Police Department. The KPD has had mounted patrol officers at various points in its history into at least the early 20th century.
Mounted Patrol Units are used in a variety of capacities, including to increase high-visibility patrols in downtown areas to deter crime and reduce persistent quality of life issues. Horses provide a unique, elevated vantage point that allows officers to more effectively monitor for criminal activity and at large events.
Mounted Patrol Units also assist with crowd control at large gatherings, perform routine walking patrols, and aid search and rescue operations as needed.
Once implemented, KPD’s Mounted Patrol Unit will be assigned to the department’s Central District, where they will primarily patrol the Market Square, Gay Street and Old City area. The Unit will also staff special events across the City, including at parades and more.
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A previous version of this news release noted that this would be the department’s first-ever Mounted Patrol Unit. The release now correctly notes that the KPD has had mounted patrol officers at various times in its history into at least the early 20th century.
