An NYPD detective who pursued a purse-snatcher on horseback received a promotion on Friday, yet he modestly stated that the chase felt like just another part of his responsibility to “take action.”
Kyle McLaughlin, at 36 years old, transitioned from detective to criminal specialist in light of his efforts during the arrest of Felicia Field—a convicted murderer out on parole—on April 15, near West 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue.
McLaughlin, who is married and has four children, expressed his happiness, remarking, “It’s awesome. I’m so happy to have been promoted. [This is] the greatest division in the world.”
While riding his 23-year-old stallion, Kelly, he was alerted by bystanders that a woman’s wallet had been stolen. Holding tightly to the reins, he galloped for about a block before apprehending Field. After all, “we never let go of our horses.”
“We are New York City police officers, and we must take action. But we also prioritize the safety of our horses and the citizens,” he explained. “Our goal was simply to ensure the woman got the help she needed. As long as she’s okay, I’m fine, and Kelly is okay—that’s what matters.”
After the high-profile arrest, McLaughlin usually treats Kelly with some treats, but this time, Kelly got an “extra carrot.”
Having joined the police force 13 years ago, McLaughlin has been a part of the mounted unit for seven years now. He noted that it took them only about two months to become good partners.
“It’s been great ever since,” he commented. “He had my back, and I had his.”
With a reputation as one of the smaller horses in the unit, Kelly has a big heart. McLaughlin pointed out, “He’s tough on everyone, but if we challenge him, he’ll step up.”
Kelly’s story is worth noting—once a racehorse on the verge of slaughter, he was rescued by the Standardbred Association and subsequently joined the NYPD. The horse was named in memory of Officer John M. Kelly, who lost his life in 2000 while in pursuit of a stolen motorcycle.
After the promotion ceremony, McLaughlin was seen outside 1 Police Square with his wife, Samantha, and their children—Axton, Remi, Wes, and Ellady.
Samantha shared her pride in her husband, commenting, “He loves what he does. His horses are fantastic partners. Trusting your partner is crucial, and he certainly does that.”
Among the other awardees that day was Chief Russell Greene, who was elevated from a one-star chief to a two-star chief. He noted how much he learned from his mentor, Transportation Secretary Thomas Morris, who passed away from COVID-19 in June 2020.
In a poignant moment, Rosemary Morris, the widow of Thomas Morris, pinned her husband’s shield on Greene during the ceremony. Greene reflected, “He was a consummate professional, and I always looked up to him as a mentor.”
“In her heart, I know he was proud that you were promoted,” Rosemary said, addressing Greene as she honored her late husband’s legacy.
