NYPD Officer on Horseback Chases Down Purse Snatcher

Bodycam footage shows dramatic pursuit through Manhattan streets

Apr. 18, 2026 at 2:30pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police officer's gloved hand holding a set of handcuffs, the harsh flash illuminating the metal and textured fabric against a pitch-black background, conveying a sense of urgency and investigative focus.The dramatic arrest of a purse snatcher by an NYPD officer on horseback underscores the continued value of mounted police units in urban crime-fighting.Manhattan Today

A New York City street turned into a high-speed pursuit this week as an NYPD officer on horseback chased down a fleeing purse snatcher, according to newly released footage. The video shows the mounted officer, riding a horse named Kelly, pursuing the suspect through crowded streets as pedestrians scramble to get out of the way. The chase came to an end when the suspect was stopped with the help of a bystander near a Verizon truck, and the stolen purse was recovered.

Why it matters

Mounted police units are still utilized in cities like New York because they provide unique capabilities, such as the ability to see over crowds, navigate busy streets, and quickly close distance in areas where vehicles cannot access. This incident highlights the continued value of having officers on horseback as part of the NYPD's crime-fighting arsenal.

The details

The bodycam footage shows the NYPD officer shouting 'Stop! Stop running!' as he pursues the suspect on horseback through the crowded Manhattan streets. With the help of a bystander, the officer was able to apprehend the suspect and recover the stolen purse.

  • The incident occurred this week in Manhattan.

The players

NYPD

The New York City Police Department, which utilizes mounted police units as part of its crime-fighting efforts.

Kelly

The name of the police horse ridden by the officer during the pursuit.

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What they’re saying

“'Whether on foot or on hooves, our officers are always ready. After someone stole a purse near West 72nd Street, our Mounted officer & his horse, Kelly, kept on her trail. Galloping down the street & with the help of a witness, they recovered the purse & apprehended the suspect.'”

— NYPD

The takeaway

This incident demonstrates the continued value of mounted police units in urban environments, as they provide unique capabilities that can be crucial in apprehending suspects and recovering stolen property. The NYPD's use of officers on horseback highlights how traditional policing methods can still be effective in modern crime-fighting efforts.