Longest-serving police horse in the US retires

OLD CHATHAM (NEWS10) - Sam, the longest-serving police horse in the United States, officially retired today after 23 years of dedicated service with the Albany Police Department's Mounted Unit. The 25-year-old horse arrived at Little Brook Farm in Old Chatham this morning, where he will spend his retirement.

Sam has been a beloved fixture in the Albany community, often seen at public events, where he was known for bridging the gap between the police and the public. Over the years, thousands of children and community members have interacted with Sam, creating lasting memories.

Lynn Cross, the owner of Little Brook Farm, welcomed Sam to her nonprofit organization, which uses horses for therapeutic programs aimed at children and people with disabilities. "We'll have to see who he is and what he wants, and he'll tell us. But he's got a stall and a turnout, and we'll see if he can find a friend that works well with him," Cross said.

Sam will continue to serve the community in his retirement, becoming part of the farm's therapy programs. "He'll be a part of the program. So, children that come in will be interacting with him because he's already done that," Cross added.

Retired Albany PD Officer Thomas Fick, who was the first to ride Sam, reflected on the horse's impact over the years. "He was just that type of horse that people were drawn to. No matter how many people were around him, he just stood there like a statue. For public and community relations, he was like gold," Fick said.

Fick expressed his happiness in seeing Sam retire to a good home after such a long career. "He deserves a good retirement. He's worked 22 years at this, longer than most officers stay on the job. He's been a big plus to the unit," Fick remarked.

Sam's retirement marks the end of an era for the Albany PD, but his legacy will continue as he embarks on this new chapter, helping others in his own special way at Little Brook Farm.