History

From the earliest days of our Nation civilian volunteers have been called upon to assist in law enforcement and help ensure the safety of our citizenry.   In the West, territorial jurisdictions were vast and law enforcement was minimal.  Sheriffs and marshals often deputized ranchers, farmers, cowboys and townspeople to help enforce the law and hunt down and capture criminals and escapees.  Qualifications for these early-day Posse members required little more than the ability to shoot straight and ride a horse.  The Pasco County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse has been proudly serving the citizens of Pasco County since 1995.  Our civilian Posse members and their mounts are all volunteers.  All Posse members must pass and maintain several qualification standards to enable horse and rider to safely work in close contact with the public. The Posse maintains a vigorous training schedule and a highly visible presence by supporting numerous events throughout the local community.  Our volunteers contribute time, transportation to and from events and purchase their own gear. 

The Posse assists the Sheriff’s Office by patrolling areas where horses are advantageous or vehicular movement is restricted.  Posse activities range from law enforcement services to public relations.  Typical Posse law enforcement functions include search and rescue operations, assisting with locating and securing crime scene evidence, ranch patrols, security details and crowd control at local events.  It has proven to be an effective form of police presence and is a force multiplier for the traditional law enforcement officer.  Mounted patrol members have a better vantage point, they are able to see and be seen, thereby deterring criminal activity.  The horse makes the perfect crowd control tool because they provide the officer with the ability to move into, through and around a crowd in a safe manner for both the officer and the public.  Posse members interact with the local community during neighborhood rides, public demonstrations, parades, flag ceremonies, and other local events.  Posse members are highly visible emissaries for the Sheriff’s Office.  The mounted patrol has received numerous accolades and is honored to enjoy strong positive public support.  People view the mounted officer as more approachable.  The horse helps break down barriers between the police and the public and fosters a spirit of cooperation which helps improve the partnership between the police and the community.  The Pasco Sheriff's Mounted Unit (comprised of sworn deputies) and the Pasco County Sheriff's Mounted Posse (comprised of civilian volunteers) are part of the Citizen Support Services (CSS) section of the Pasco Sheriff's Office.  Click here to see the CSS organization chart. 

Training & Qualification

All the Posse horses are privately owned by each Posse member.  Members are responsible for transporting their mounts to/from training and events and keeping their tack and equipment clean and in good repair.  The Sheriff’s Office offers 8 hours of training each month.  Training sessions incorporate valuable riding skills in equitation such as body position for balance and the use of natural aids (i.e. seat, hands and legs), formations and cavalry drills, obstacles and sensory training to include lights, sirens, flares, firecrackers and gunfire.  Drills and exercises are designed to refine skills in riding mounted patrol and working in areas where members will be in close contact with the public. Posse members and horses must pass and maintain several qualification standards before being authorized to ride in official Sheriff’s Posse events.

Join the Posse

The Posse is a highly rewarding experience!  It affords equine enthusiasts an opportunity for fellowship and camaraderie.  You will have the opportunity to learn more about your equine partner, receive valuable training, further develop your riding skills, share your knowledge with others and make some great friends – all while serving your local community.  Even if you do not own a horse, you are encouraged to become a member of the Pasco County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse.  The ground crew is an integral part of the PCSMP.  Many of our activities do not require horses.  Participation is open to anyone 18 years of age or older who is of good character and has a desire to serve their community.  All applicants must be approved by the Sheriff’s Office, agree to undergo a background investigation and adhere to the Sheriff’s Office General Orders, Bureau Directives and Posse rules, regulations and by-laws.  For mounted applicants, consideration will include, but not be limited to riding ability, condition, ability and character of the horse, saddle and equipment of the applicant and verification of current negative coggins.  If you are knowledgeable about horses and riding, have time to volunteer or just want to serve your community, we encourage you to come out and make some new friends at the Pasco County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse.  For more information contact Deputy Margaret Bushell, Sheriff’s Office/Posse Liaison and Training Officer for both mounted units at mbushell@pascoposse.com