Law Enforcement Cycling: A Resource Guide to Program Implementation

• NCJ Number: 242565
• Author(s): Jesse P. Poole, M.A.
• Date Published: August 2011
• Length: 88 pages
• Publication Format: Dissertation/Thesis
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This thesis is a resource guide for those police agencies considering the implementation of a new police bicycle patrol or are interested in improving an existing program; and it outlines the research underlying the guide, including its methodology and the implications of the research findings.

Abstract

Part 1 of the thesis is the resource guide. Following a historical review of the use of the bicycle in policing, its cost-benefits for policing are compared with motorcycles, horses, and vehicles. A separate section addresses the potential benefits of bicycles in policing. These include extended maneuverability for patrol routes, resourcefulness, effectiveness in implementing pro-active community-based crime prevention, being eco-friendly, and cost efficiency. Examples of successful bicycle patrols are provided. Another section in part 1 focuses on the equipment needed for a bicycle unit, including the bicycles and their accessories, patrol apparel, protective equipment, and electronic wireless equipment. Other sections of part 1 address equipment preservation and repair, training, liability, and policy issues, and funding. Part 2 describes the research conducted in the development of the resource guide. The main objectives of the research were to review the existing literature and data relevant to bike patrols; collect new data using a semi-structured survey or interview; summarize the survey/interview findings; and address relevant challenges identified in the findings. This is followed by details of the research design, limitations, and significance. The significance of the research is its filling a gap in scientific research on what makes a bike patrol program successful. Surveys were distributed to 15 municipal agencies throughout Oregon which either had or currently have some type of bike patrol program. Survey findings are distinguished according to three groups of agencies based on the size of the populations served. 38 references and appended questionnaire, model policy, and comparative discussion of thesis formatting