Horses Headed to Philadelphia

Seven years after its disbandment due to budgetary reasons, Philadelphia is looking to bring back the horses.

The Philadelphia Police Department, with the support of the non-profit Philadelphia Police Foundation, expects to have a Mounted Unit with about 10-12 horses and officers up and running later this year. 

According to a press release from the police department, the mounted patrol has a rich history in Philadelphia that dates back to 1889. 

Lt. Daniel McCann, the newly appointed commanding officer of the unit, calls, the release continued,  "A necessary tool for Philadelphia Police. The unit excels in controlling large crowds, accessing narrow passages, enhancing the visibility of officers and improving communication between law enforcement and the community."

In addition to public contributions, corporate support thus far has come from Comcast, 7-Eleven and Verizon Wireless. State Senator Lawrence Farnese has secured a $100,000 state-funded grant specifically for the Police Department and the Mounted Unit.

For more information or to donate, go to www.phillypolicefoundation.org.

Check out a video of the first four horses arriving at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pXtOWDo3vk. 

Take a look at why Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey say the unit will help with crowd control: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWBjrsrnvww.