PROVIDENCE, RI – Mayor Jorge Elorza, Commissioner of Public Safety Steven M. Paré, Colonel Hugh T. Clements, Jr., members of the PPD Mounted Command and representatives from McLaughlin & Moran, Inc. gathered this morning at the PPD Mounted Command stables, located in Roger Williams Park, to welcome the newest members of the prestigious unit, Salute, Chase, Thunder, Jed and Prince.
The new Clydesdales were purchased and generously donated to the department from McLaughlin & Moran, Inc., who are also providing the funding for their ongoing training.
“The horses of our mounted command unit are some of our most versatile public safety assets — not only do they support our uniformed police officers during large public events, but they also serve as terrific ambassadors for the Providence Police Department,” said Mayor Elorza. “I’d like to thank McLaughlin & Moran, for their generous donation and continued support of one of Providence’s most unique and beloved programs.”
“The five Clydesdales that were generously donated by McLaughlin & Moran will serve as valuable contributors to our community policing efforts,” said Colonel Clements. Members of the Mounted Command work in various capacities throughout the city ranging from clearing unruly crowds at club closings to working with community groups, schools, children with special needs and the elderly. The Providence Police Department is truly grateful for the donation of these horses as they play an instrumental role within the department and community.”
“It is an honor to donate these magnificent Clydesdales to the Providence Police Department’s Mounted Command,” said Terry Moran, president, McLaughlin & Moran, Inc. “The horses of the Mounted Command are true ambassadors for the Providence Police Department and the City of Providence as a whole. Salute, Thunder, Chase, Prince and Jed have many exciting years of service ahead of them, and we know that they will represent the city well in their time on the Command.”
Under the command of Lieutenant John Ryan and the supervision of Sergeant Steven E. Courville, the Mounted Command is comprised of 4 officers, Douglas Gould, Antonio Laranjo, Daniel Famiglietti and Jose Mendez, 3 civilians and 8 horses. Each officer is an experienced rider, patrol officer and a specialist in community policing.
ABOUT THE NEW HORSES:
Salute is a five (5) year old registered Clydesdale standing at 20 hands and weighing in at approximately 2000 pounds. He is currently assigned to Officer Jose Mendez and working on various assignments. Salute is solid, dependable, and loves being around children. He is adaptable, intelligent, and comfortable in many situations.
Chase is a six (6) year old registered Clydesdale standing at 18 hands and weighing in at 1800 pounds. He is currently assigned to Officer Daniel Famiglietti and working on various assignments such as greeting children, patrolling Roger Williams Park and Federal Hill. He is eager to become a full-fledged member of the Providence Police Department.
Thunder is a five (5) year old registered Clydesdale standing at 18 hands at weighing in at 1800 pounds. He is currently undergoing training for police work in Roger Williams Park and the Washington Park neighborhood. He shows promise to be a solid police horse as he is confident, friendly and brave.
Jed is a seven-year old (7) registered Clydesdale standing at 18 hands and weighing in at 1900 pounds. He is currently undergoing training for police work at the Mounted Command stables. He has a very gentle disposition and has excellent manners.
Prince is a three (3) year old registered Clydesdale standing at 17.2 hands and weighing in at 1600 pounds. He is currently undergoing equitation training at the Mounted Command stables. He is the newest and youngest member of the Mounted Command. He is curious, bright and is a quick learner.