NEWS RELEASE 19-097
The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office bids farewell to LEO, a Mounted Patrol horse who is retiring after three years of service.
LEO is a 15-year-old Hanoverian bay gelding who was donated to the agency in 2016. As a member of our Mounted Patrol Unit, he became a natural fit due to his calm demeanor and easy-going disposition. During LEO’s three years, he participated in emergency response training in Orlando and worked several major events throughout Sarasota County to include spring break on Siesta Key, Memorial and Labor days as well as holiday patrols at local malls during the Christmas season.
LEO is retiring due to the onset of Shivers, a neuromuscular disorder which makes him unable to continue working in law enforcement. He will live with other retired police horses at Mill Creek Farm, an equine sanctuary in Alachua, Florida.
A video from LEO's retirement is available for view on the sheriff's office YouTube channel at YouTube.com/SarasotaSheriff.