The Cincinnati Police Department’s Mounted Patrol Squad would like to buy as many as six qualified horses to help in its work.  Owners of horses that meet the qualifications can call Sergeant Matthew Cornacchione or Police Officer Elena Moton at (513) 533-4130 to discuss the sale of the horses. 

The preferred breed is American Quarter Horse, and horses should be geldings between four and eight years old.  Other breeds may be considered if they meet the required qualifications:

• Soundness (service ability):  This is the most critical consideration in selecting a police horse, since performance efficiency depends on the horse’s ability to move.  Horses with any defects in sight, wind or limb that may adversely affect performance will not be considered.
• Size:  The patrol horse should be a minimum of 15.2 hands, and preferably no taller than 16.3 hands.  Weight should be proportionate to height and bone structure.
• Disposition:  Police horses must be gentle and free from bad habits such as biting or kicking.  They must not object to bridling, saddling or grooming; nor should they balk, rear, shy or be hard to catch when turned out.  They must be quiet and not object to being rubbed or petted.  They must be easy to trailer.  Horses with stable vices (cribbing, halter pulling, stall kicking, tail rubbing, weaving or bolting) will not be considered.
• Broke:  Horses should be “broke” under saddle and bridle.  Advanced schooling is desired.
• Health:  The horse must be evaluated by the Mounted Patrol Squad’s veterinarian prior to purchase.  Documentation of an up-to-date negative Coggins test is required.
• Color:  Dark colors (black, brown, chestnut, bay, or sorrel) are preferred, but color is not a determining factor if other qualifications are met.