Editor’s note: The above video is from a June 26 story.
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Two new horses have joined the Wichita Police Department’s mounted unit.
Liberty, an 8-year-old quarter horse mare, was purchased recently in Pretty Prairie, while Phin, an 11-year-old Clydesdale-thoroughbred cross mare is from Rose Hill. Both horses have already started field training alongside officers to adapt to the sights and sounds of metropolitan police work.
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The department has said horses offer unique advantages over traditional patrol vehicles, particularly in crowded environments:
- High visibility: Mounted officers can see over crowds and are easily spotted by those needing help.
- Crowd management: The horses can help safely guide crowds at major events.
- Positive Outreach: The animals are a natural icebreaker that leads to conversations, breaking down barriers between police and the public.
Wichita police encourage the community to approach and greet Liberty and Phin if you spot them out on patrol.
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While the day-to-day upkeep for the mounted unit is already integrated into the department’s annual budget, purchasing new horses depends heavily on support from outside partnerships and organizations. The Wichita Police and Fire Foundation helped fund the acquisition of Liberty and Phin. The organization has previously stepped in to purchase items like reflective leg wraps for the horses, protective helmets and other service horses to help support the mounted unit…