Mounted Unit

The Richland County Sheriff's Mounted Unit; presently under the command of Sheriff J. Steve Sheldon, was re-established in the spring of 1990. This Special Deputy Auxiliary unit consists of men and women who not only volunteer their time, but supply their own mounts, equipment and uniforms.

The Mounted Unit rides in many parades, patrols on horseback for the Richland County Fair, Richland County Mock Crash program for area high school students, and Heritage Days held at Malabar Farm State Park. Business meetings are held the first Tuesday of every month throughout the year.

While the members are not commissioned officers, all have participated with their horses in numerous training sessions conducted by the Buckeye State Mounted Deputy Patrol. Training sessions include Tactical Formations, Crowd Control, and Search & Rescue. Riders and horses are graded and must pass minimum standards in order to receive certification.

The unit is completely self supporting and operates at no cost to the citizens of Richland County. The monies we receive from fund raisers and from donations for working special events are used for purchasing Unit equipment and further training of the mounted deputies and their horses.

The Richland County Mounted Unit would like to extend an invitation to anyone who may be interested in becoming a Mounted Deputy. Requirements for membership include an individual who has horsemanship abilities; access to a safe, reliable horse; transportation for you and your horse; and be able to pass a criminal background check.

You do not need to be a resident of Richland County. Applications for membership can be obtained by contacting:

Captain Brian Gunder - Richland County Sheriff's Office - 419-774-5658 - (days)
Sgt. Pat Britt - RCSO Mounted Unit - 419-468-3687 - (evenings)