The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has upped its border security game with the inauguration of its first Border Mounted Patrol Unit. This new division pairs members of the Texas Highway Patrol (THP) with horses, aiming to better tackle the challenging terrains along the state's border. The formation of this unit was marked by the graduation of the first 3E Mounted Horse Patrol Class, consisting of troopers trained for strategic on-ground enforcement.
"This marks a historic moment for the Texas Department of Public Safety as we continue to innovate and strengthen our efforts to protect the people of Texas," DPS Director Steven McCraw said. The mounted units will not just supplement the ground teams but exploit the natural capabilities of horses to navigate terrain that might otherwise impede regular vehicular patrol.
The 3E teams boast of seasoned troopers, adept in horsemanship, and their Quarter Horse partners. Their preparation involved a six-week intensive program that culminated in four weeks at the Customs and Border Patrol National Horse Patrol Program's Basic Training Course. Here, the troopers refined skills essential for navigation, adaptability across varying terrains, tracking, and executing law enforcement tasks from horseback.
After their time in the classroom, the teams put their training to the test with two additional weeks in the field, gaining real-world experience. During this short stint, 3E was successful in aiding the apprehension of 11 individuals attempting illegal entry into the U.S. Additionally, they supported the Kinney County Sheriff's Office with tracking related to bail outs. The thorough training is a step to ensure these troopers and their equine partners are prepared for the demands patrolling the border entails.
With their training complete, these teams will be heading to their posts in locales including Eagle Pass, Carrizo Springs, and Del Rio. Photos from their training and the graduation ceremony can be viewed here.
