Mounted patrol unit debuts in downtown Meridian

The Meridian Police Department debuted their horse mounted patrol unit today downtown. Two Clydesdales--Blaze and Maverick have been in the department since December and recently were acclimated at Bonita Lakes Park.

"We’re super excited about it. I know that our business district--they’re super excited--coming out and taking pictures and what I’m more excited about are the kids coming out and just falling in love with the horses," said Police Chief Chris Read. "I’m a huge fan of pouring hope and investing in young people."

Chief Read says the horses will be featured in several events and will patrol in downtown.

“They’re going to be our full time downtown district, also at Bonita Parks, all of our other parks and we’ll have school events for the kids," said Read. "They’ll be a part of that--all of our parades and events."

Once the department revamps their Explore Program on March 23rd, Blaze and Maverick will be teachers as well. The program is for students who are interested in law enforcement careers.

"They will actually have an active part in our Mounted Patrol Unit," said Read. "If they're interested, they will work along side them."

Blaze and Maverick are six feet tall. There are currently two officers working in the Mounted Patrol Unit.