By Don Scott | Fountain Hills
I oppose the introduction of horseback patrols in our community under the label of “community policing.” This move prioritizes optics over substance.
There has been no public demand for mounted patrols, no transparency regarding their cost and no justification for their use. The town’s own May 14 announcement specifically cited bicycle patrols — not horses — as a way for deputies to “engage directly with the community.”
As Lt. Jerry Vance noted in the Fountain Hills Times Independent, “There is a nationwide effort to get out of the cars and meet people.” To that, I say: great. To the use of horses, I say: whoa.
Annual maintenance costs for bicycle patrols typically range from $200 to $1,000. For mounted units, that number jumps to between $7,000 and $20,000 per horse. The cost discrepancy alone warrants scrutiny.
Beyond economics, this decision raises concerns about animal welfare. Using horses in triple-digit temperatures for non-essential, image-driven purposes is not community-centered — it’s cruel. Horses were not born to bear our burden. There is nothing compassionate about parading animals over scorching pavement and under a searing sun, particularly when the image evokes a militarized presence more than goodwill.
Veterinary experts note that horses’ normal body temperature ranges from 100° to 101.5°F. Once it exceeds 105°, they’re at risk for heat stroke, organ failure or death. In extreme heat, they sweat inefficiently and are especially vulnerable when walking or standing on pavement.
Recently, while Mayor Friedel held court inside a climate-controlled business with cold drinks being served, three MCSO horses stood outside in a busy parking lot, surrounded by idling vehicles and engine exhaust — an image posted to social media by Linda Kavanagh.
By all means, engage with residents — from a bike seat, eye to eye, in the spirit of connection, not from a horse’s back, looking down.
Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
