The New Mexico Mounted Patrol is a unique organization. It is the only known volunteer police agency originating from action taken by a State Legislature.  In 1937, twelve men banded together to be of service to their communities by aiding the newly organized State Police, which at that time had a few officers and very little equipment. These twelve men called themselves the New Mexico Mounted Patrol. So much good and interest was shown by these men that their organization grew over the next few years.  Governor John Miles, during his term in office, took an interest in the Mounted Patrol and, wishing to make it a more solid organization, set forth a Bill in the State Legislature which when passed, on April 16, 1941, created the Mounted Patrol as it is known today.  Senate Bill No. 128 (Section 5) established the duties of the New Mexico Mounted Patrol as: 

"it shall be the duty of the New Mexico Mounted Patrol and the members thereof to assist in the enforcement of law by cooperating with all law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies of the State of New Mexico when requested by them and under their direction and control; to act as official bodyguard to the Governor of this State or to distinguished visitors upon the call of the Governor."

As of 2008, the NMMP is the largest volunteer Law Enforcement Agency in the United States.  In addition to assisting local and state police agencies, the NMMP has been called upon to assist in the event of a disaster.  Our Special Response Team (SRT) responded during Hurricane Katrina and Rita providing support to local and state police agencies throughout Louisiana and Texas.