Mounted patrol pimp sweep helps clean up Compton

It's probably safe to say a crop of recently arrested Compton pimps never thought they'd be chased down by cops on horseback- but it happened.

Sure, there are many officers who prefer to patrol their beats in cars, on motorcycles and even on segway scooters, but others say riding a horse suits them just fine.

Although some will argue the practice is a little bit dated, others point out that mounted patrol units have their advantages.

Old-school policing models have value

Los Angeles Sheriff's Department deputies point out that horses can do things that motorcycles and squad cars cant.

For one, they can jump things.  They are also better able to chase a suspect down in a tight alleyway.

They can also help pull over other types of suspects- such as those who are fleeing on horseback. That's right- one mounted officer reportedly said  he once pulled over someone who was riding a horse.

The department said many of the officers within the mounted unit have a strong equestrian background- and they all say they love what they do.

The LASD also points out that the mounted unit relies heavily on public donations, and invites anyone interested in making a cash donation to reach out to the department.