Lorain County Sheriff's Office debuts a new rookie horse

The Lorain County Sheriff's Office has purchased a 10-year-old mare for a new mounted unit, supported by private donations that have raised more than $50,000; a second horse is expected soon.

The Lorain County Sheriff's Office has acquired a 10-year-old mare to begin a newly created mounted unit. The horse arrived from Millersburg and has not yet been officially named. Handlers described her as calm, patient, and well suited to the unit's roles. The sheriff's office says private donations have funded the program. Key details: - The mare is 10 years old and arrived in Lorain County about a week before the report. - Volunteers and deputies are assisting with training; many participants have prior horse experience or interest. - Sheriff Jack Hall said the mounted unit was discussed in March 2025 and cited uses such as search and rescue, perimeter work in manhunts, crowd-management support, and community outreach. - Fundraising and donations have brought in more than $50,000 so far, along with equipment and feed, and the sheriff said the program will not be the responsibility of local taxpayers. - A second horse is likely to be acquired in the coming weeks, and the pair may make a first public appearance during Memorial Day weekend; the office hopes to expand to 8–10 horses, assign full-time deputies, and find a permanent boarding location. Summary: The new mare marks the start of a mounted unit intended to support both operational needs and public engagement. A second horse is expected soon, and the office plans to grow the program and establish permanent resources over time.