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City of Madison Police Field Operations Mounted Patrol

Mounted Patrol

The mission of the Madison Police Department Mounted Patrol Unit is to represent the Madison Police Department while on horseback as ambassadors of goodwill, to build and strengthen community partnerships, and deter criminal activity through high visibility engagement.

The Officers

Sergeant Shawn Engel

I began my career with the Madison Police Department in 1995. As a Sergeant, I have been a part of many specialized teams to include: the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team, Special Events Team (SET), the Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) Team, the South District Community Policing Team (SCPT) and, most recently, the Mounted Patrol Team. The Mounted Patrol Team holds special meaning to me as the riders and horses have unique skill sets unlike any other. In addition to being great ambassadors for MPD, the team excels in crowd management, search and rescue operations and special events. The Mounted Patrol Team fulfills its mission with the active support of the Friends of Madison Mounted, Irongate Equine Clinic, and several horse sponsors.

Officer Sarah Mulry

I have been with the Madison Police Department since 2001. I owned a horse as a teenager and also worked as a trail guide at various stables in Northern Wisconsin. The best part of our job is the type of interaction we have with the public. Police work often has many negative aspects to it...when you are on the horse, it breaks down the natural barrier that being in a squad car has. People flock to us to say 'hello' and in turn, have a positive interaction with the police.

Officer Ken Mulry

I have been a patrol officer with MPD since 1997 and have been involved with horses since 1983 when I acquired 2 young appaloosas. In 2003 I began a second career as a natural hoof care practitioner. I am excited to be a member of the unit that gives me the opportunity to further my horsemanship while serving the citizens of Madison.

Officer Casey Wahl

I've been an officer with the Madison Police Dept. since 2001. I've been a horse lover and rider since childhood. I was lucky enough to have a horse and take riding lessons for several years as a child which would turn out to be great preparation for joining up with the Mounted Patrol Unit. In 2007, I attended a certification training and after that first week, I knew this was the job for me! I've found that doing police work on horseback can be challenging at times, but the rewards are many! One of the best things about my job is getting to meet and chat with the public at demonstrations and the many events around the city. What other partner only wants an apple for a good days work!

Officer Molly Thomson

I have been an officer with the Madison Police Department since 2005. In addition to patrol services, I've worked as a member of a Community Policing Team and as a grenadier on the Special Events Team. I enjoy participating in community events and other opportunities to engage with the community, especially while on bicycle. I am excited to be working as a member of the Mounted Patrol Unit and the challenges and rewards working with a horse bring.

Officer Katherine Bland

I have been with the Madison Police Department since 2015 and joined the Mounted Patrol team in 2019. My affection for horses, especially draft horses, started when my grandfather shared his love of them during summer vacations. He would be thrilled to see me riding our big guys. Combining a childhood hobby with a career I am passionate about is a dream come true. Our horses are extraordinary ambassadors for MPD and to work with well-trained horses in keeping citizens and officers safe during large events is a great privilege.

Officer Ruben Gonzalez

I have been with the City of Madison Police Department since 2016. I am a 3rd detail officer and spent my first 2 years patrolling the Central District before moving to my current assignment patrolling the South District. I was first introduced to horses by my grandfather at a young age. My grandfather planted a passion and love for horses in me that I am excited to grow as a member of the Mounted Unit. I am humbled and honored to continue to serve the community of Madison as a member of MPD's Mounted Unit.

Officer Thomas Coyne

Hello. I have worked for the Madison Police Department since 2013 and currently work as a Neighborhood Resource Officer in the South District. Being a part of the Mounted Patrol Unit provides an excellent opportunity to interact with members of the community. It is awesome to see people look at the horses with the same respect and admiration that I feel towards them. I have horses at home and have always been impressed with their unique personalities and the working relationships that can be built when you've gained their trust. The opportunity to do police work with an equine partner is truly incredible. I'm thrilled to be part of a unit that provides such great service to the community in such an approachable format, giddy up!