It is with deep sorrow that Nassau County Executive Bruce A. Blakeman and Commissioner of Police Patrick J. Ryder announce that Mounted Unit Horse Charlie passed away on Saturday, August 5, 2023. Charlie suddenly fell ill and was immediately brought to the veterinarian for evaluation. Charlie was diagnosed with a tumor in his intestines and was euthanized to limit his suffering.
Charlie, a quarter horse of 19 years,joined the Nassau County Police Department in 2016, after completing his training to become a Police Horse. Charlie’s great temperament and demeanor helped train the last 10 Nassau County Police Officers who transferred into the unit. Charlie exhibited great bravery over his years of service during presidential visit’s, hundreds of other large details and served his community proudly. Charlie was also known as the gentle soul of the barn.When the Mounted Unit was called upon to visit the thousands of school children over the years, it was Charlie who answered the call because of his gentle disposition and versatility.
Charlie’s name holds great significance as he represented a true Nassau County hero as he was named after Police Officer Charles D. Cole Jr. who passed from a 9/11 related illness, making the ultimate sacrifice on August 14, 2011.
Please keep Charlie and the members of the Nassau County Police Mounted Unit in your thoughts and prayers.