Many times, law enforcement and youth meet because of trouble: criminal and traffic offenses, vehicle crashes, domestic violence, vandalism, alcohol and drug offenses, assaults and habitual runaway reports.

To open a different avenue of communication, the Scott County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Reserve Unit has started an auxiliary unit for youth, known as the Junior Posse Unit. 

Although the first members were sworn in by Sheriff Kevin Studnicka in late July, they have already participated in events such as National Night Out and the Scott County Fair. The youth aren’t just used for the grunt work. Every member participates to some degree. Assignments and participation depend upon the member’s age, skills and the horse’s demeanor. 

Besides participating in events, Junior Posse members also attend meetings and training sessions with the Mounted Reserve Unit. Topics included in training are:  mounted defensive tactics, formation riding, search and rescue, CPR and first aid, and radio procedures.  

Applicants to the Junior Posse Unit must be 10–20 years old, own a horse, have transportation, submit an application and successfully complete the mounted sensory evaluation. Many of our current members are also active in 4-H and other trail riding clubs. 

For more information, contact Mounted Reserve Capt. Scott Doering at (612) 703-7038 or scottufa@msn.com.