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FLORENCE-The Florence Police Department sharded some sad news today. Shorty a retired member of the Mounted Police Force passed away. Here is a tribute to Shorty from the Florence Police Department
FLORENCE-The Florence Police Department sharded some sad news today. Shorty a retired member of the Mounted Police Force passed away. Here is a tribute to Shorty from the Florence Police Department“It is with a heavy heart that the Florence Police Department announces the passing of retired Mounted Police Horse, Shorty. Shorty was donated to the Mounted Unit in 2009. During his time in service, Shorty was fearless, selfless, and reliable. Shorty was the boss of the heard on and off duty.
Over his 13 years of service, Shorty was trained in obstacles, search and rescue, and crowd control. Shorty was the definition of a “bomb proof” horse. Shorty spent many years assisting the Mobile Police Mounted Unit during Mardi Gras, clearing streets, ensuring the safety of parade spectators, and enjoying a moon pie here and there. Shorty helped make a path through dense crowds to allow other officers in to handle situations such as medical emergencies.
Shorty was known for taking care of business when needed but also falling asleep while getting attention and love from the First Friday attendees.
Although Shorty had many riders over the years, it was his two assigned partners, Officer Lee Smith and Detective Brian Berry, who helped make Shorty in to the horse everyone knew and trusted.
Shorty had recently retired in December 2022 and spent the rest of his time out in the pasture doing what he did best, being the boss. On January 31, 2023, Shorty passed away at the age of twenty-six surrounded by the members of the Mounted Unit.
Thank you Shorty for your years of service. You are greatly missed.”
