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High gas prices push Surgoinsville police patrols back to the future
A switch from horsepower to horse and mule power means Surgoinsville police officers are pumping carrots, apples and barley into their cruisers instead of high-priced gasoliine.
A horse, two mules and a wagon were donated by local farmer Lirpa Sloof.
The horse’s name is Marshal Dillon, and the mules are called Chester and Festus.
"When you look at how much it costs to maintain a horse and two mules compared to the maintenance and gasoline costs of our fleet of patrol cars, this decision was a no-brainer," said Surgoinsville Police Chief Jeff Hesoun, adding that the animals don’t get stuck in the mud or snow or blow out a tire, and that while the average life of a patrol car is four years, the SPD can get 20 years out of a good mule.
"When gasoline is $5 a gallon every law enforcement agency in the state will be looking at our Hoof Patrol as a template for their own program," Hesoun said.
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Its good to see Jeff hasn't lost his sense of humor. You folks are sure lucky to have him. A good sense of humor is vital in a police officer, I hope it carries thru the department.
Patsy,
APRIL FOOLS!
I have no idea where this new chief of police came from but he needs to go back. How stupid to use horses with a radar gun.When they have the parades in Surgoinsville they will not let us ride our horses in it because of the mess so what is up with this stupid idea? I myself knew the former chief and he didn't have to do ignorant stuff like riding a horse to keep his town in control.But they say they got a horse and two mules donated to them well that is just two more asses to the town.I have lived in that town and I am so glad I don't now.Surgoinsville is going to be the laughing place for people to talk about.
It will be interesting to watch one of these new patrol "ASSets" catch a speeding "MUSTANG"!!!!!!!
Wow, I can't believe this turn of events. Farmer Lirpa Sloof just gave `em away, huh?
Don't laugh too hard it still might happen with gas prices going up. Besides a fat old deputy looks more dignified on a horse as opposed to dressed in shorts pumping and wheezing on a trail bike.
I always look forward to the Times-News April Fool's edition. I am sure that not everyone reads the web edition, Mr. Brown. And of those that do, how many take the time to read the comments? I think, though, that the mules and wagon were the giveaway. Anyway, another wonderful April 1 story.
P.S. I think they would definitely be better than the red light cameras. LOL I hate those things, cameras not horses.
Mr. Jones, I make you correct but wish you hadn't ruined it. I was looking forward to 5 or 6 comments about how horses would be more effective than red light cameras.
I'd be glad to hear about this but pardon my skepticism due to today's date.