Miami Police Get New Horse From Presidente Supermarket

Miami's police department is welcoming a new recruit - but he's no academy graduate.

The five-year-old Gelding horse is a gift from local grocer Pedro Rodriguez, owner of the Presidente Supermarket chain.

"This is a great benefit," said Chief Manuel Orosa, saying the horse donation came right on time.

It rounds out the mounted police unit to an even dozen. Some of those high-stepping members are nearly ready for retirement.

Miami's mounted unit dates back to 1942, and Chief Orosa pointed out it's the only one still in existence in South Florida.

Mounted officers serve in more than just ceremonial roles. Their higher, mobile vantage points help for crowd control. On horseback, officers are easier to spot in an emergency.

Plus, Mayor Tomas Regalado emphasized the unit is "loved by neighborhoods," and draws residents out to salute the officers.

The white Morgan Percheron cross comes with a name that's no surprise, considering his old owner's business.

It's Mr. Presidente, or Señor Presidente, sir.

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