NCJ Number
199756
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 70 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2003 Pages: 53-54,56,59-60,62,63
Editor(s)
Charles E. Higginbotham
Date Published
2003
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article describes various police uses for the following types of specialized patrol vehicles: motorcycles, bicycles, electric bikes, scooters, multiterrain vehicles, and mobile precincts.
Abstract
Police motorcycles' maneuverability and acceleration have made them ideal for use in traffic enforcement, escort detail, and crowd control. Bicycles are quiet and efficient and provide a bridge between motorized-vehicle and foot patrol. Bicycles provide efficient transportation to areas that are normally available only by walking, such as parks, public housing developments with limited street access, tourist areas, college campuses, business plazas, and sports arenas. The electric bike provides all of the advantages of the pedal bicycle but requires less physical effort by the rider. Scooters are more maneuverable than cars yet offer many of the features of a car in a compact space. They provide shelter from the weather and enable officers to carry more equipment than bicycles. The scooter is especially suited for parking enforcement and specialized patrol on college campuses and business premises. Multiterrain vehicles are useful when officers are required to travel into remote areas such as mountains and beaches. The low-pressure, high-flotation tires and motorcycle-type engines and handlebar steering provide maneuverability in traversing rough terrain. The vehicles have limited storage capacity and require special skills and riding techniques. They are used often for search and rescue missions. The mobile substation or precinct can be driven to a specific area to provide a base of operations for beat officers and facilitate community interaction. Such substations can function as self-contained community policing headquarters and be used in daily community policing programs. When necessary, the mobile precinct can become a command center at the scene of a crime or disaster. This article provides a select list of companies that deal in specialized patrol vehicles and related accessories and services.