They are big, strong, and impressive - but also gentle, smart, and calm. Raleigh Police Department's Mounted Unit has four horses (and four human partners) who patrol across the city and help with enforcement and community relationships.

"Horses are a force multiplier for our department," says Sgt. John Hood, who leads the unit. "Because we're so high up on them, our vantage point is better. They help us maintain a calm, organized environment when lots of people are gathered in an area. One horse gives us the presence of several officers on foot. They're also naturally attentive and always taking in what's around them. They often spot things before we do and let us know when something seems out of place."

Before patrolling, officers bring the horses from their boarding location to a downtown facility. The officers groom the horses and prepare for duty. They then go to patrol downtown, and parks and greenways.

The horses - Luna, Sampson, Maverick, and newcomer Cruz - are draft breeds with incredible strength and cool tempers. The geldings are all from a Texas trainer who specializes in police horses. The mare, Luna, came to RPD from Oxford, N.C., and has served the department the longest.

For the past three years, the Raleigh Police Foundation has played a key role in the unit's growth and success.

"The foundation's help has been a game changer for us," Hood says. "Thanks to the financial assistance, we can acquire horses that have already started their training."

Police horse - and rider - training is comprehensive and demanding. Before the pairs can start working, they must pass a 16-step test. It includes such activities as dismounting quickly, backing into an L-shaped corral, pursuing a suspect on horseback, and shooting an air gun.

Reason to Join RPD: Mounted Unit

It was the Mounted Unit that attracted Hood to the Raleigh Police Department 26 years ago. He started riding horses as a child and worked as a trail ride guide in the mountains before moving to Raleigh. "If Raleigh didn't have a mounted unit, I probably would have joined my hometown's police department," Hood says.

Most of the unit's officers have been experienced equestrians, but those who are new to riding have also been successful, with lots of training.

Having a variety of specialized teams is one of RPD's strong points. "Here you have the opportunity to work full-time in specialized units such as the Mounted Unit, Motors, K-9, and SWAT," says Sgt. Michael Rodrigues, who leads the department's recruitment efforts.

The department is currently looking for candidates for its lateral police school, scheduled to start in late June.

Greatest Strength

Beyond their operational role, the Mounted Unit has become one of the department's most visible and beloved community engagement tools. The horses draw people in often before the officers say a word.

"When we ride through downtown, it doesn't take long before people approach us," says Senior Officer Dawn Montemurro, who rides Sampson. "That ability to quickly connect with community members is a unique strength of the unit."

At community events, the horses often become the centerpiece, helping break down barriers and build trust. "People who might not normally approach an officer will come right up to a horse," Hood says. "It opens the door for us to talk, answer questions, and build relationships."

Lieutenant Matthew Slocum, who was once an officer assigned to the unit and is now the lieutenant over it, agrees. "As the City grows, the Mounted Unit stands as a reminder that public safety is not just about enforcement, it's also about relationships, visibility, and trust built one conversation at a time," he says. "With their unique blend of presence, skill, and approachability, the horses and their human partners remain a vital part of how Raleigh stays safe, connected, and community focused."

Watch Our Mounted Unit Video!

Unit leader John Hood describes why he loves his job on the mounted unit. Watch his This is What I Do: Senior Officer John Hood, RPD Mounted Unit video!