• Enhancement of Traffic Enforcement
• Easier Mobility & Deployment
• Increased Vision for Officers
• Greater Public Contact

Currently, the Motorcycle Patrol consists of two Police Officers: Aaron Lowe and Calvin Griffin. Although these Officers are often deployed to enhance routine patrol activity and assist with calls-for-service, their primary responsibility lies in the enforcement of traffic laws. The enforcement of traffic laws has become critical, as of late, due to an increased awareness of problems associated with reckless driving and speeding violations, particularly in residential neighborhoods and school zones.

Selection and Training 

As positions become available within this assignment, SPD Officers can write a letter of interest, which includes a resume of any previous experience and/or training they've had with motorcycles.

Upon their selection, the new Motorcycle Patrol Officer is sent to an 80-hour Motorcycle Patrol Academy, during which time they receive training in such areas as:

• Riding/Braking Maneuvers
• Rules of the Road
• Equipment Familiarity/Maintenance
• Pursuit Tactics
• Officer Safety Issues

A great deal of their training comes from the practical application of riding techniques acquired through the use of obstacle courses, practicing riding formations, and daily, one-on-one training with qualified instructors.

Equipment  

Currently, Officers assigned to Motorcycle Patrol must only provide for their own protective gloves and eyewear. However, SPD includes as part of its fleet, two, 2003 Harley Davidson FLHTP, fuel-injected 1340cc motorcycles and generously provides for the allotment of riding boots, jackets, and helmets.

Depending on staffing requirements and weather conditions, the motorcycles might be used at any time of the year. Not only are they effective in the enforcement of traffic laws, they can also be deployed to assist in responding to calls-for-service.

In addition to their primary responsibilities, members of SPD's Motorcycle Patrol have been used to enhance many special events and public appearances. Some of these events have included parades, escorts, and talks and demonstrations regarding motorcycle laws and safety issues.

SPD's Motorcycle Patrol has successfully demonstrated the many benefits derived from such an assignment. With safer streets and an enhanced Patrol Division, the citizens of Stillwater can be assured of a better quality of life.

If you would like more information about SPD's Motorcycle Patrol assignment, the equipment that they use, or would like to include them in an upcoming event, please contact: