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Sheriff's Posse
Sheriffs' Posses have existed in the United States since the 1700's. In the West, territorial jurisdictions were vast and law enforcement was minimal. Sheriffs and marshals often deputized ranchers, farmers, cowboys, and townspeople to help enforce the law and hunt down and capture criminals and escapees. Qualifications for these early-day Posse members required little more than the ability to shoot straight, ride a horse, follow a trail, and survive for long periods of time in the field. Records show that Posses have been used to cover Larimer County's 2650 square miles since the 1880's. Our current Posse was organized in 1956 and has continually served the citizens of Larimer County since then.
In addition to completing a 220 hour Reserve Officer Training Academy which includes: basic law, community relations, patrol procedures, communications, arrest control, driving and firearms, new Posse members must also pass horse skills testing, extensive background investigations, plus integrity and oral board interviews. Candidates must also complete physical and psychological testing. Candidates must own their own horse and the ability to transport it.
Once a member of the Posse, additional training is also offered in mounted patrol skills, map/compass/GPS usage, car partner program, and other specialized training offered by the Sheriff's Office. All Posse members carry a minimum of a "Reserve Deputy Sheriff Commission".
See How do I Volunteer for more information on applying to be a Posse member.
See http://larimercountysheriffsposse.org/ for more information on the Posse.