NCJ Number
206564
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 31 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2004 Pages: 72,73,76,78,81
Date Published
July 2004
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the advantages of utilizing police bicycles.
Abstract
Police officers on bicycles can take advantage of this stealth-like mode of transportation to catch criminals when they are least expecting it. The flexibility of a bicycle allows officers to hide in the shadows while waiting for suspects to make drug deals. Bicycles also allow several police to surround a suspect at once in a confined area. Undercover operations are made easier with the use of bicycles because they are able to be easily hidden. However, if large or heavy equipment is necessary bicycles may not be the answer. The advantages of using bicycles to patrol and keep order in large crowds are touted. Maintaining order at public gatherings is easier when problematic individuals can be quickly isolated and removed without having to bring in a police vehicle, which is often too large to move quickly and safely within large crowds. Bicycle patrols are also efficient for traffic enforcement in downtown areas where stop sign violations and cruising problems are more easily handled with the flexibility of a bicycle. While bicycle patrol officers are limited in their police equipment to what they can carry on their person, officers receive training on how to use the bicycle itself as a defensive weapon. The special challenges of using bicycle patrols at night are discussed, including the need to stay out of the street to avoid drunk drivers. Homeland security and disaster relief is an emerging issue for bicycle patrols, as these officers may be better able to negotiate rough terrain and quickly deliver supplies to areas unreachable by car. It is important that police departments realize that the bicycle is an extraordinarily versatile tool for law enforcement and public safety purposes.