Watch: Mentos-Loving Police Horse Hangs Up Badge

SARASOTA, FL — The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is down one deputy on its force, but the news isn’t bad. After 12 years of serving, Charlie the horse has officially hung up his badge to spend his retirement years with one of his former partners.

Charlie, 18, said goodbye, or more likely neigh, to the agency during a Wednesday night ceremony at the Mounted Patrol’s barn in Nokomis. The thoroughbred gelding went home with Deputy Mariah Piper, a former member of the mounted patrol, who served with Charlie by her side for more than two years, the sheriff’s office said.

“Formerly a pony horse whose job was to lead race horses to the starting gate, Charlie was a natural fit in the agency’s Mounted Patrol Unit due to his calm demeanor,” the agency said in an email. He was donated to the sheriff’s office in 2005.

Mounted Patrol Sgt. Chris Laster said Charlie’s demeanor was so perfect for police work that “he didn’t even move” when a tear gas container exploded over his head during a training session shortly after his arrival on the force.

Charlie quickly became a leader among horses, as well, Laster added. New riders and horses were sent out with Charlie to help ensure they picked up the calm nature that made him such an asset, Laster said.

What plans Charlie has for retirement weren’t readily shared. The agency, however, did say he has a passion for carrot cake, apples and most especially Mentos. To celebrate his retirement, Charlie got to chow down on all three treats during his Wednesday retirement party.

Check out Charlie in the video below:

Photo and video courtesy of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office