- November 15, 2024
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The Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, also known as the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Unit, is a non-profit volunteer organization. The Flagler County unit was founded over 28 years ago by retired Deputy Kathy Weeks. The organization strives to serve the community through search and rescue efforts, and assistance at various community events.
Members are required to be capable riders, at least 18 years of age, and own a horse with serene mannerisms. Members are expected to attend each monthly meeting, training session, and on average, dedicate 50 hours of volunteer time a year towards community events.
“The unit is much like a neighborhood watch,” said Deputy Steven Williams. “At community events we ensure parking lots remain organized and safe, but most importantly we dissuade people from tampering with vehicles. From our perch atop our horses we can see above cars, and will notice if any suspicious people are milling about, or trying to break into vehicles.”
Williams explained this tactic is especially useful during the holiday season, when many people are out shopping, and parking lots are brimming with cars filled with valuable items.
On the rare occasion that a person goes missing, the FCSO Mounted Unit will join the rescue efforts.
“Horses can get where automobiles can’t,” explained Williams. “Vehicles, and even four-wheelers, have a difficult time getting through a dense forest. These are situations in which horseback riding can be a great advantage. Another thing to consider is that helicopters and vehicles make a lot of noise. From horseback we can see above shrubbery, and can hear someone shouting for help.”
The unit gathers once a month to discuss upcoming events, and to reacquaint the horses with one another. Training sessions are held every few weeks to keep the horses accustomed to extraneous noises, and distractions that would occur during a community event.
“In order to desensitize them, and unsure that they will remain calm when at an event, we will crinkle water bottles, put on lights, police sirens and wave around Styrofoam noodles,” said Williams.
The unit will also attend a basic mounted law enforcement training seminar once a year. The training, which includes a helicopter flyby and smoke grenades, is focused on helping the animals create a tolerance for hectic situations.
To join the Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, or more information contact Deputy Steven Williams at 931-1937, or email [email protected].
