NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Officials with the Orleans Parish Sheriff's Office hosted a ceremony to celebrate the retirement of one of its mounted unit horses named Francis. Split Second Foundation’s Show of Love Gala happening Oct. 3 OPSO officials said Francis joined the unit in 2007 and has been with the sheriff's office for more than 17 years. Francis has worked under sheriffs Bill Hunter, Marlin Gusman and Susan Hutson. Francis has ridden in Mardi Gras parades with some of her notable riders including Hutson, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell and New Orleans City Councilwoman Helena Moreno. "Francis has been a beloved member of our team, not only for her work but for her spirit. She’s left a lasting legacy, and we are grateful for her years of service to OPSO and this city," said Hutson. (WGNO/Patrick Thomas) (WGNO/Patrick Thomas)(WGNO/Patrick Thomas)(WGNO/Patrick Thomas)(WGNO/Patrick Thomas)(WGNO/Patrick Thomas) At Wednesday's ceremony, Moreno presented Hutson with a proclamation that recognizes Francis and her retirement. She expressed her gratitude in a post on social media. Bittersweet to retire the amazing Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office horse Francis. She has been a major part of their mounted unit for many years patrolling our streets and you’ve for sure seen her in Mardi Gras parades. Today, at the age of 26, she is leaving to retire in a farm in Folsom. The NOLA city council sent her off with a proclamation (which she was very interested in lol) along with two big bags of carrots. Thank you for your service Francis! Job well done! Councilmember Helena Moreno Francis was born at the Angola prison farm and retired at the age of 26. OPSO officials said she will join two of her mounted unit colleagues at a Folsom farm. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Rain chance comes back starting Thursday Big Game Bound: Bills look to get back on track but face a Texans roadblock Why women are more likely than men to work multiple jobs From Puerto Rico to success: One man’s journey in education leadership Homicide victim identified in 2002 Algiers cold case