The Auburn Hills Police bicycle patrol unit was formed in 1992 with 4 officers and a couple of bikes. Over the years it has grown and gained recognition. Currently, the Department has eleven (11) certified bicycle patrol officers including an instructor and mechanic. There is at least one bike officer on each shift. The officers have the same patrol role and responsibilities as every other patrol officer.

It is the primary purpose of the Auburn Hills Police Bicycle Patrol Unit to provide this agency with a specialized, well-trained supplement to everyday patrol operations. The Bicycle Patrol Unit strives to promote a positive working relationship among the community while maintaining the highest level of integrity and professionalism. It is our mission to build a partnership with area residents, merchants and visitors through direct, positive interaction.

To do this, we penetrate problem areas and utilize high visibility and proactive enforcement procedures to eliminate those problems. We fully enforce all state and local laws while proactively educating potential offenders. We seek out areas where patrol efforts may be hindered such as parks, the Rails to Trails Bike Path, wooded areas and business districts.

It is our belief that by incorporating mobility, visibility, interaction and proactive law enforcement techniques, a bicycle patrol officer can positively affect the everyday workings of a police department and its impact on the community.

Training:
The training for the bicycle patrol officers is taken from the International Police Mountain Bike Association (IPMBA). The training is 40 hours of classroom and riding. Before being allowed to patrol on bicycle, the initial training covers such topics as:

• Basic bike handling
• Emergency maneuvers
• Riding in traffic
• Off-road/rough terrain tactics
• Agility
• Dismounting and Suspect apprehension
• Equipment maintenance/minor repairs

Equipment and Uniforms:
The Department currently has 11 Trek Law Enforcement Mountain Bikes, which have been customized for police use. The bicycles are equipped with battery powered lights (flashing red and blue) and siren. The patrol cars are equipped with quick mount and release bike carriers allowing the officers to take a bike with them on patrol. Each bike patrol officer is outfitted with gear for all weather conditions. The equipment includes: Cool-max shirts, short, pants, gloves, a versatile jacket (winter, summer w/vest) and a helmet. The shirts and jackets have reflective patches on the back for safety and identification. The bike patrol officers are able to ride 24 hours a day in fair-weather with temperatures 40 degrees and above.

If you would like to see the bike patrol in your neighborhood, or would like to sponsor a bike safety rodeo and registration, you can contact:

Sgt Jill McDonnell
248-364-6861
jmcdonnell@auburnhills.org

View Bicycle Safety Tips
Bike Patrol Photogallery