New Mexico police officers recently pursued a suspected shoplifter on horseback, as shown in bodycam footage released by the Albuquerque Police Department on Facebook. The incident occurred on March 20, when officers from the department’s mounted unit heard about a robbery at a Walgreens store. The suspect, identified as Mark Chacon, allegedly stole $230 worth of merchandise and was later charged with eluding/evading police on foot, shoplifting, and possession of drug paraphernalia. The bodycam video provides a close-up perspective of a mounted officer approaching the drugstore on horseback.
In the video, a woman is heard urging the officer to “go get him,” as they realize the suspect had stolen something. The officer then shouts at Chacon to stop and informs him that he is being detained by the police. Chacon, seemingly exhausted, begins to run slowly into moving traffic, prompting vehicles to slow down in response. Despite the dangerous situation, he manages to walk back onto the sidewalk before any cars get too close. However, two other officers on horseback corner him as he attempts to flee back onto the highway, leading to his eventual apprehension and arrest.
The chaotic pursuit of the suspect unfolds in the bodycam footage, with the officers on horseback yelling commands at Chacon to get on the ground and submit to being detained. The situation grows tense as Chacon initially resists, but eventually relents and is placed in handcuffs. The video captures the unusual nature of the chase, with the suspect attempting to evade capture on foot while the officers pursue him on horseback. The dramatic scene plays out on the streets as vehicles slow down to avoid colliding with the officers and the suspect.
The Albuquerque Police Department has not provided any additional details about the incident, and it remains unclear what led to Chacon allegedly stealing from the Walgreens store. The bodycam footage offers a glimpse into the challenging and unconventional situations that police officers sometimes face in the line of duty. The use of horses in pursuit of a suspect may seem unusual in modern law enforcement, but in this case, it proved to be an effective method of capturing the fleeing individual. The officers’ quick thinking and dedication to apprehending the suspect resulted in a successful conclusion to the chase.
Despite the risks involved in pursuing a suspect on foot and on horseback in a busy urban area, the Albuquerque police officers demonstrated their commitment to upholding the law and protecting the community. The bodycam footage serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of police work and the lengths to which officers will go to ensure the safety of the public. The incident highlights the importance of effective teamwork and communication among law enforcement officers, as they work together to bring suspects to justice and maintain order in the community. The actions of the officers in this case exemplify the bravery and dedication required to serve and protect the public.
