After years of service with the Tampa Police Department, a Buckskin Quarter Horse named Mount Hank is set to enjoy his retirement. Born on April 1, 2006, in South Dakota, Hank joined the police force's Mounted Unit in 2020, as announced in a social media post by the Tampa Police Department. Known for his calm demeanor, he has been a staple at city events, from parades to holiday celebrations.
Now stepping away from the hustle of city life, Hank is bound for the serene country environment of Mounted Officer Rainy Perez's home. There, Hank will integrate into a new family, which includes not just Officer Perez but also another horse named Jack and a donkey named Charlie. The Tampa Police Department expressed their gratitude towards Hank, saying, "Thank you, Hank, for the years of service, the steady presence, and the many miles hoofed for Tampa."
Hank's transition to retirement marks the end of an era for the Tampa Mounted Unit, which has long relied on the partnership between horses and officers to manage crowds and engage with the community in a unique way. The department highlighted his role at various events, indicating the level of trust and reliability Hank brought to his duties.
The community and Hank's fellow officers will undoubtedly miss his presence, but the Tampa Police Department farewell message encapsulates the sentiment well: "Enjoy retirement - you’ve earned it!" Those interested in learning more about the partnership between Mount Hank and Officer Perez can watch their "Partners in Crime" feature, which provides insight into their time together on the force.
