Strategic Staffing Solutions (S³) has adopted the Detroit Police Department’s Mounted Unit for one year.  S³ will pay for the general care of the Mounted Unit’s five horses for the entire year, including hay, feed, vitamins, medications, bedding, vaccinations and vet costs, and new shoes and trim every six weeks. Care for one horse per year costs $7,500.

Cindy Pasky checks out the horses

“Detroit must be safe and secure to attract the businesses and talent it needs to grow and continue on with its transformation,” said Cindy Pasky, president and CEO of Strategic Staffing Solutions. “The Mounted Unit plays a key role in that attraction through crime prevention and detection as well as community engagement. S3 is glad to help support the men and women of that unit as they work every day to keep our city safe.”

The Mounted Unit rides 365 days a year unless weather does not permit (below 15 degrees, heavy rain, lighting or ice storms).

They maintain police presence through daily patrols around busy Downtown and Midtown areas.  At night, the unit patrols entertainment districts and the Detroit RiverWalk.  Officers and horses also patrol neighborhoods and parks as needed based on crime activities.

The unit patrols major sporting events at all three sports venues downtown (Comerica Park, Ford Field and Joe Louis Arena) and is on site during any concerts held at these venues, as well.

Additionally, officers and horses attend hundreds of school and community events as requested, as well as career days and block parties.

“The Mounted Unit represents an important branch in Detroit’s Police Department, including Search and Rescue and crowd control,” said Mounted Unit Sergeant Erik Eide.  “We are beyond humbled by Strategic Staffing Solution’s generosity in helping us care for our horses.”  The Mounted Unit is comprised of Big Baby, Elmo, Ivan, Tiny and Vader.

Cindy and Sgt. Erik Eide

Sgt. Eide first met representatives from S³ in December at the Detroit Public Safety Foundation’s Above & Beyond Awards Ceremony, resulting in S³’s interest to adopt the horses.

“The service provided by the Detroit Police Mounted Unit to our citizens is immeasurable,” said Chief James Craig. “The very generous donation and adoption of our horses by S³ is more than just a financial pledge – it is a strong commitment to the community in which we all serve.”

The adoption was made through the Detroit Public Safety Foundation.