The use of mounted officers is not new to the police profession. Uniforms of today’s police departments can be traced to its quasi-military heritage, and likewise, the use of horses came early to law enforcements efforts. As early as 1957, the Burbank Auxiliary Police had a twelve officer mounted detail whose job was to patrol the “river bottom” and other places well-suited for their skills. They also represented the Department in ceremonial functions and parades, and assisted in search and rescue missions, especially in the foothills along the river and flood channels.
Currently, the Burbank Police Department’s Mounted Unit are enjoying retirement!