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Bike Patrol Unit
The Gadsden Police Department has four LEBA certified police officers. All of the officers are assigned to the CAPP FORCE unit and use the bikes to work special events (Riverfest, GRITS, Christmas Parade, Mid-South Band Festival and sporting events), and as a tool in targeted problem areas i.e. a rash of burglaries in a residential neighborhood, thefts from automobiles and/or vandalism during sporting events. The Gadsden Police Department Bike Patrol Unit offers bicycle safety programs & rodeos for youth groups. They also offer adult safety courses as well for groups and associations. The Bicycle Patrol is always planning activities for various times of the year. For more information please contact Officer John Tidwell at (256) 549-4600 *196 Bike Unit SOP PROCEDURE: PURPOSE: Assignment and selection: Special Events, Additional Duty. Officers must be assigned to the Community and Police Partnership (C.A.P.P.) program due to the ability to work most events and flexible hours. Officers that volunteer for the bicycle patrol must have that least two years of service in law enforcement may make their request to the Special Operations Commander.
Officers that volunteer must pass an initial physical fitness test before being assigned to the bike patrol. They must pass a duty related physical fitness test annually to stay in the bike patrol. The Chief of Police must approve both tests. Utilization of bicycles: The Chief of Police approves the use of bicycles as emergency vehicles, for law enforcement purposes by trained and certified members of the Gadsden Police Department. While the Patrol Division Commander maintains the authority over the bicycle patrol program, the Special Operations Commander is the administrator over the program and the bicycle patrol supervisor is authorized to permit, cancel, or modify the use of the bicycle patrol. Detective Division, Shift Commanders, Narcotics, Event Supervisors and Citizens may request the bicycle patrol for use in details or patrol assignments, through the Special Operations Commander. It is recognized that during the course of patrol duties or training, bicycles may receive hard use. However, any intentional abuse or misuse is prohibited and any damage will be documented and reported through the chain of command. Officers will conduct minor maintenance and repairs they are trained and certified to perform. Any other maintenance will be conducted at a certified bicycle repair shop.
Bicycles patrol duties: Bicycle patrol is a special method of patrol; officers will utilize the patrol as a tool to perform first line police services in the areas they are assigned. These areas include special events; targeted problem areas and others as may be appropriate. The bicycle patrol will serve as an effective proactive force in crime prevention, detection and enforcement. Officers will operate year round except, during severe or inclement weather. Bicycle patrol officers will not work traffic accidents due to the limited amount of equipment carried on the police bicycle. They will not be dispatched to calls however; they will advise dispatch and respond to calls in their assigned area. Officers will work in pairs on patrols special events however; the bicycle patrol supervisor can make modifications due to special circumstances. Officers will not initiate felony traffic stops. Officers are encouraged to identify specific patrol needs and areas that could be addressed by the bicycle patrol and suggest them to their supervisor for consideration. Patrol vehicles according to policy will transport prisoners. A streamlined booking system shall be utilized for the bicycle patrol officers. A. Bicycle patrol officer will complete the front of the arrest report with all available information. B. The transport officer will complete all the additional information at booking and turn the paper work in at the desk. C. The bicycle patrol officer will return to the department and complete the narrative before the end of the shift.
Except in emergency circumstances, officers will secure bicycles. Bicycle should be transported on racks approved and provided for that purpose. Only in an emergency shall a police bicycle be transported in a patrol vehicle. Officers are encouraged to park the bicycle transport vehicle in a central location in the patrol or special assignment area on city property. Officers should fill out the bicycle patrol form (Annex A) at the beginning of the shift and should complete the form at the end of the shift. It will be turned in at the assigned location. Officers on bicycles must operate bicycles in conformance with City Ordinances 18-4, 22-9, 22-10, 22-29, State Code 32-5A-115, 32-5-213, 32-5-249, 32-5A-260- 32-5A-266, 32-5A-280- 32-5A-285. Training: Officers will attend and complete a Department in service training program, prior to utilizing the bicycle.
All officers using a police mountain bike will be trained and certified in a basic course within 6 months of their selection and will receive advanced training within one year of basic certification by the Law Enforcement Bike Association L.E.B.A. or similar certifying association. Officers are permitted on their off-duty time to ride Departmental bikes as a means to enhance fitness and cycling skills. The City and Department assume no liability should the officer become injured while doing so.
Uniforms and Equipment: All officers, while on duty on a police mountain bicycle, will wear the Departments bicycle patrol uniform, as approved by the Chief of Police. Officers will wear any combination of the bicycle patrol uniform, due to the weather conditions. However, officers are encouraged to have a like appearance. Uniforms:
Officers may use personal equipment however; the equipment must be consistent with current standards and policy prior to use. The Department will not be responsible for the loss, damage, theft, or destruction of personal equipment utilized.
Wearing of soft body armor will be in compliance with Department policy. Officers will wear helmet, gloves and safety glasses while on the bicycle. Officers will carry the “Fox 40” whistle to warn traffic, pedestrians and for overall safe operation of the police bicycle. Equipment:
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Web Site designed and maintained by Officer Darrell Arnold |