Cherished Ocean City Mounted Patrol Horse To Be Retired

Photo/ OC Police Dept

(September 4, 2013) – The Ocean City Police is bidding farewell to one of its cherished mounted patrol horses.  “Goodnight” a 4-year veteran police horse was officially retired last week.  In 2011 "Goodnight" was diagnosed with Lyme disease.  "Goodnight" underwent treatment for the infection and was cured, unfortunately the effects of the disease left him with a diminished capacity for his police duties and as a result the OCPD has opted to retire him.

"Goodnight" came to the OCPD in 2011 at the age of 7.  During his service with the department he has had one primary rider. "Goodnight" has been involved in numerous arrests, several hundred enforcement actions and participated in special details including the car cruises, Delmarva Bike Week and Winterfest of Lights as well as all of the annual parades and festivals that Ocean City hosts.

Photo/ OC Police Dept.

During his career "Goodnight" has assisted other agencies including Pocomoke City Police, Maryland State Police and the Worcester and Wicomico County Sheriff’s Departments with crowd control functions as well as search and recovery details. "Goodnight" has also served as the lead horse to train new police horses and new mounted officers.

"Goodnight" retires at the age 11 and will be spending his retirement on a farm in Western Maryland.  He is in good health and spirits, and is enjoying the company of his new family.  As for "Goodnights" replacement, the OCPD has begun to search to select a suitable replacement.

Submitted:
Ocean City Police Dept.