Waterloo Region, Ontario – At the monthly Police Services Board meeting this morning, the Waterloo Regional Police Service announced that the Mounted Patrol Unit will be stood down indefinitely as of April 1, 2014.
The decision to remove the mounted patrol option from active duty came as a result of ongoing analysis of priorities and resources.
“The Mounted Unit has been a valuable and effective patrol option and we are very proud of the officers who have contributed to its many successes over the past four years, “ said Chief Matt Torigian. “This was a difficult decision and one made out of necessity. If there comes a point when we are able to once again assign resources to the unit, we will look at reinstating it.â€Â
The Mounted Patrol Unit could often be found patrolling the downtown core areas, mingling in crowds at community festivals, and assisting in missing person searches. They were a highlight of many community events and were requested by popular demand.
The cost savings relating to the Mounted Patrol Unit are largely long-term and include areas such as upgrades, training and maintenance costs. The officer permanently assigned to Mounted Patrol will be redeployed into other areas of the Service.
A decision on the retirement of the horses will be made in consultation with the Police Services Board.
As a result of this decision, requests to have the Mounted Patrol Unit at community events will no longer be processed. However, the Waterloo Regional Police Service is committed to maintaining strong police visibility and positive community contact.
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