Knoxville Police Department Launches Mounted Patrol Unit

Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningFestivalsNews

Officers on horseback interacting with the community in downtown Knoxville

News Summary

The Knoxville Police Department is set to introduce a mounted patrol unit in the spring of 2025, enhancing safety and community engagement in downtown areas. With training already underway for officers and their Percheron horses, Phyl and Waggoner, the initiative seeks to utilize community policing methods during events at popular locales such as Market Square and Gay Street. Supported by city leadership, the mounted patrol aims to foster connections while maintaining a vibrant atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

Exciting News for Knoxville: Mounted Patrol Unit Coming in 2025!

Knoxville is getting ready for a fantastic addition to its downtown experience! The Knoxville Police Department (KPD) has announced it will be launching a mounted patrol unit, making our streets safer and, frankly, looking pretty cool in the process. This highly anticipated unit is scheduled to hit the ground—or rather, the hoof—running in the spring of 2025. So, what does this mean for the city’s vibrant downtown area? Let’s dive in!

Patrolling Downtown with a Horseback Twist

The primary focus of this mounted patrol will be the downtown hotspots, including the bustling areas around Gay Street and Market Square, as well as the ever-popular Old City. With a fresh take on community policing, the KPD aims to enhance safety during special events, creating a friendlier and more engaging atmosphere for everyone. Imagine seeing officers riding strong, majestic horses while they mingle with the public during festivals or community gatherings. Sounds pretty great, right?

Training: Getting the Officer and Horse Team Ready

Currently, KPD is neck-deep in training for this new unit, which is already in its seventh week. Right now, three dedicated officers are undergoing a comprehensive training program involving around 150 hours of preparation. From learning how to navigate busy streets to mastering various desensitization exercises, including stepping over wooden boards and getting accustomed to loud noises, these officers and their equine partners are working hard to get ready!

As you can imagine, the training isn’t just a walk in the park—literally! Officers and their horses need to work together seamlessly, especially during those high-energy events we love so much. Expect to see them trotting through crowded areas, cheering crowds, and vibrant street happenings. It’s about ensuring safety while maintaining that friendly community vibe.

Meet Phyl and Waggoner!

Now, let’s talk about the horses! KPD has welcomed two wonderful Percheron horses named Phyl and Waggoner, sourced from a Texas company for $39,000, which even includes their transportation to Knoxville. These gentle giants will be the big stars of the mounted patrol unit, helping to create a connectively safe environment for everyone in the downtown area. Their size will certainly make them stand out, adding a unique flair to our city’s policing efforts!

Community and Leadership Support

There’s no denying that the launch of this unit has the strong backing of local leadership. The Police Chief has expressed excitement about how this initiative could positively impact community safety. The city’s Mayor has also shown support, emphasizing the project’s aim to enhance downtown safety and its overall appeal to residents and visitors alike. It’s not just about law enforcement; it’s about building rapport and trust in the community.

Future Plans and Recruitment

As the project progresses, KPD is actively seeking internal candidates for the mounted patrol unit who will undergo the same rigorous training. After completing these training hours, the department plans to designate two full-time officers to the mounted unit, while others will work part-time. This dedication shows a commitment to community-focused policing that will involve more than just traffic enforcement—it’s about fostering connections.

A Look Ahead

As we look forward to spring 2025, Knoxville’s downtown is set to embrace a new era of safety, interaction, and community spirit through the new mounted patrol unit. Whether it’s a weekend festival, a casual night out, or a lively farmer’s market, you can expect to see Phyl, Waggoner, and their human partners getting involved, ensuring everyone feels safe and happy. This initiative might just be the best thing to happen to Knoxville in nearly 70 years!