NCJ Number
133476
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 58 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1991) Pages: 58-60
Date Published
1991
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Bicycle patrol is a cost-effective technique for reducing fear of crime in neighborhoods.
Abstract
Bicycle patrol has returned to the forefront of policing during the past 3 to 5 years. Reasons for this include low-cost installation and maintenance and higher arrest rates per officer. Bicycle officers in Phoenix and Seattle, for example, have as many as five times more arrests than officers on other types of patrol. Although productivity is higher in warmer months, bicycle patrol can be used throughout the year. Because bicycle patrol officers wear an altered police uniform, they blend into crowds. Offenders are not accustomed to seeing police officers on bicycles and may be taken by surprise. Bicycle patrols are particularly effective in areas with a high incidence of drug activity. A successful bicycle patrol requires officer dedication and ongoing training which can be provided from within the department once the program has been initiated. The cost to equip and train a bicycle patrol averages between $1,000 and $1,485 per officer. In addition to the bikes, officers should be equipped with lighter uniforms and gear to facilitate ease of motion. All officers should have properly fitted helmets, lightweight bicycle pants, and bicycling shoes. Nylon gun belt gear is superior to leather as it is lightweight and washable.