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The Caldwell Police Department and Chief Ingram are proud to announce the formation of a new unit, and the only of its kind in the State of Idaho, the Caldwell Police Mounted Unit, or as we like to call it “CPMU”.

Keeping in line with the interests and culture of the great City of Caldwell, our vision is to provide a unit that displays both a ceremonial and functional purpose, while also serving our community in a truly remarkable way. The highly visible and approachable horses capture the attention of all, while enabling rewarding connections between CPMU officers and members of the community. Horses are natural peacekeepers, known for their ability to soothe anxiety, reduce stress, and help diffuse difficult situations. Studies have continually shown that increased visibility by these "four-legged law officers" lowers crime and increases public trust and confidence in their law enforcement.

Beginning in 1870, the Boston Police Department formed the first mounted patrol unit in America, and quickly inspired departments nationwide to reimagine what a typical police presence looked like. Since then, mounted patrol units have been a memorable cornerstone of American policing for decades. In recent years, and as a result of budget reductions across the country, many police departments have been forced to either disband their mounted patrol units all together or reduce their size. CPMU is unique in that it is not funded by taxpayer dollars, but rather through donations and the generous support of our community partners.

Along with the unit itself, a nonprofit foundation has been created to help facilitate the funding of the unit and to support the officers with the costs associated with maintaining their horses. The reality is that the veterinary care, feeding, boarding, and training needed for a mounted horse patrol unit is expensive. Funds donated to the Caldwell Police Mounted Unit Foundation will cover the costs of horses, their care, equipment, training, and certification.

Mounted police patrols provide an excellent opportunity to strengthen the bond between the police and the community. The Caldwell Police Department, the Caldwell Police Mounted Unit, and the Caldwell Police Mounted Unit Foundation are excited to ride into this new adventure with our greatest strength – our community – as our partner.