YORK COUNTY, S.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) -- The York County Sheriff's Office Mounted Patrol Unit is grieving the loss of Joise, a beloved 27-year-old American Paint Horse who served faithfully as a member of the Mounted Patrol Unit.

The sheriff's office says Josie passed away peacefully.

Josie was part of the Mounted Patrol Unit for more than 16 years. In those years, Josie served as team leader, Cpl. Mark J. McCarter’s backup horse.

Josie was also ridden by Mounted Patrol members, Detective Tom Kinnee, Retired Cpl. Allen Strom, Investigator Marschal Martens, Deputy Chloe Fey, and Kellie Conrad in her Mounted Search and Rescue role. All of whom were certified to ride Josie during her tenure.

Known for her gentle demeanor and steadfast presence, Josie was a fixture at numerous community even

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