The Ocala Police Department in Florida has welcomed a new member who stands just two feet tall, has four legs, and is irresistibly cute. Magic, the miniature horse, has been officially named an “honorary police officer,” as announced in a Facebook post from the department.
Magic is the first mini horse to join the Ocala Police Department, and while she may lack traditional law enforcement experience, she brings valuable emotional support training. According to the department, Magic is part of Gentle Carousel, an equine therapy nonprofit. This organization’s trained mini horses provide comfort to thousands of hospital patients, hospice residents, veterans, and first responders each year.
Magic will be involved in various outreach programs, including the police department’s youth literacy initiatives and its ice cream truck events. “Magic will help foster goodwill and strengthen the connection between the police department and the community we serve,” stated Chief Mike Balken in the Facebook post. “Her friendly nature and charming presence are sure to make her a favorite among everyone she encounters.”
