Local Search and Rescue Team Ready for Action

By Brandon Clark

The Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Patrol is a civilian volunteer search-and-rescue team that assists the sheriff’s department with missing persons, provides security at emergency scene sites, and patrols public events like the Whiteside County fair.

The group is multi-purposed and is prepared to step in where needed. They have worked with local counties’ SWAT teams and K9 units and are trained in firearms, control tactics, and CPR. 

Some members, like group President Randy DeBoer, have also undergone Search and Rescue Management training, where members learn to coordinate and manage search efforts and think like the missing person.

DeBoer has been with the mounted patrol for over 20 years and recalls when a 15-year-old girl had gone missing in Agnew, IL. The local fire department had already been on the scene searching for the girl when the mounted patrol got the call to join the search. A few hours in, one of the patrol riders found the girl in a previously searched grain trailer shed.

"That makes you feel good when you can be the one that found them, and it was due to the training that you put effort into obtaining," DeBoer said. 

Whiteside County Sheriff, John F. Booker, appreciates the support and sacrifice of his mounted patrol members.

"These guys are worth their weight in gold. They don't get paid for what they do. They volunteer," Sheriff Booker said. "Many of these guys have full-time jobs, but when this comes up, they make themselves available."

Sadly, the group's involvement with the horses has dwindled over the years, along with their member count. They currently have 12 active members and five reservists. 

“It is getting harder and harder to find people with horses to volunteer their service,” DeBoer said. “We are just looking for people who are willing to donate their time and help out in the community.”

When the group originated in 1971, it was a requirement to own a horse. These days, most of their assignments have them patrolling on foot or in vehicles. But, with their numbers dwindling, the patrol would be happy to find those willing to volunteer.

Prospective members need to be 21 years or older, clear a background check and be able to obtain a FOID card. Finally, after an interview, the team puts the decision to a final vote.  

Those interested in starting the application process can call the Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office at 815-772-4044 for more information.