HCSD — Standard Operating Procedures

427.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

The Hartwell County Sheriff’s Department has established the Mounted Patrol Unit (MPU) for the purpose of enhancing patrol efforts in the community. Mounted patrol has been shown to be an effective way to increase officer visibility in congested areas and their equestrian operation can provide a tactical approach to crimes in progress. The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines for the safe and effective operation of patrol mounted horse/patrol mount.

427.2 POLICY

Patrol mounts may be used for regular patrol duty, traffic enforcement, parking control, or special events. The use of the mounted patrol will emphasize their mobility and visibility to the community.

Mounted patrols may be deployed to any area at all hours of the day or night, according to Department needs and as staffing levels allow.

427.2.1 MOUNTED RANK TRADITION

Deputy Sheriffs may adhere to but are not required to adhere to some sheriff office/department or police department traditions found across these United States and in the State of California, where their mount is given the rank higher than that of their station. Mounts are deputized, like K9/Canine Deputy Sheriffs.

427.3 SELECTION OF PERSONNEL

Interested sworn personnel, shall inform their appropriate Bureau or Division Commander. Interested personnel shall be evaluated by the following criteria:

• Recognized competence and ability as evidenced by performance.
• Special skills or training as it pertains to the assignment.
• Good physical condition.
• Willingness to perform duties using the bicycle as a mode of transportation.

427.3.1 MOUNTED PATROL UNIT SUPERVISOR

The Mounted Patrol Unit supervisor will be selected from the rank of corporal or higher by the Patrol Operations Division Commander or his/her designee.

427.4 DEPUTY RESPONSIBILITY

Deputies and their patrol mount must in compliance with the vehicle code under normal operation. Deputies may not operate, ride the patrol mount without lighting equipment during hours of darkness except when such operation reasonably appears necessary for officer safety and tactical considerations. Deputies must use caution and care when operating the patrol mounts without lighting equipment.

Deputies are exempt from the rules of the road under the following conditions (Vehicle Code § 21200(b)(1)):

• In response to an emergency call.
• While engaged in rescue operations.
• In the immediate pursuit of an actual or suspected violator of the law.

Foot Pursuits