Meet Savannah’s police officers with four legs and a badge

SAVANNAH, Ga. — Savannah’s mounted patrol unit helps officers navigate crowded events and busy historic streets from horseback, according to the police department.

Officer Carlos Escobedo works with the horses on the mounted patrol unit.

“The horses they’re a force multiplier they help us do our job. but they help the officers on the ground too. They are a stronger presence. Since we’re so high We’re able to see farther into the crowd. We see a fight breaking out, we’re able see it and call it in the radio,” Escobedo said.

The horses are trained to handle crowds, sirens, and anything in between, according to Escobedo.

Escobedo believes the horses are also helpful during search and rescue operations.

Caring for the horses

Escobedo said caring for the horses is a responsibility that comes with the advantage of working with them.

“If we don’t take care of these horses, I’m out a horse. These horses are really well taken care of. We have a group of officers and we have a group of civilian groomers that help us every day,” Escobedo said.

A dream come true

Escobedo said working with the horses is part of his dream.

“Sometimes I don’t believe it, you know. I’m from California and I did grow up riding. I started off on patrol and I saw the horses downtown and that’s what caught my attention. That’s when I knew that this was something that I wanted to do and join the unit,” Escobedo said.