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Roanoke Police Department
Bike Patrol
The Roanoke Police Department Bike Patrol is one of the largest on the East Coast. The program was implemented in October 1993, and is made up of more than 60 officers who ride mountain bikes. The program is funded through federal grants. Bike Officers take part in traffic checkpoints, arrest impaired drivers and operate radar. In 2003 Bike Patrol Officers successfully piloted an aggressive driver campaign. Officers must complete a 40-hour course in Bike Patrol. The training includes a nationally recognized “Effective Cycling” Course, which teaches officers to maneuver their bikes in a safe and effective manner in a variety of road conditions. In 2004 Bike Patrol Officers made 224 traffic stops for speeding, 10 DUI arrests, 8 traffic stops for child safety seat violations and 21 traffic stops for seatbelt violations.
The Bike Patrol also serves as a tool to enhance Community Policing. Officers patrol neighborhoods on their bikes, and are often viewed by citizens as being easy to approach.
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