Lorain County Sheriff Jack Hall is planning to launch a new mounted unit in the county, inspired by a volunteer unit from the ’50s and ’60s. The unit will provide security, community outreach, and public relations benefits, similar to other mounted units in nearby counties like Medina County. The horses will be boarded at the Lorain County Fairgrounds and cared for by the sheriff’s office.

The new mounted unit will be made up of commissioned full-time and part-time deputies with equine experience. Deputy Deborah Hurlburt, who has over 30 years of experience with horses, will be part of the unit. The horses will be used for patrol, search and rescue, as well as community outreach, beyond just parade appearances.

A fundraiser is planned for Saturday to help cover startup costs for the unit, with private donations already covering the purchase of two law enforcement horses. Long-term plans may include a mix of private and public funds for the unit, which is expected to start this summer with community appearances and expand with specialized training for deputies. Sheriff Hall sees the mounted unit as a way to rebuild community confidence in the sheriff’s office and strengthen trust with the community.