The Adrian Police Motorcycle Unit was established in 1999. The assignments of the five-member unit include general and specialized patrol, traffic enforcement, parade details, and dignitary escort. Cpl. Darrin Griewahn leads the motor unit. Officers assigned to the unit include Sgt. Derek Helinski, Cpl. William DesChamps, Officer John Birdwell and Officer Herb Gardner.
Motor Unit Uniform
Motorcycle unit members wear the same uniform as those assigned to patrol division, with some modifications. Instead of regular boots or shoes, members wear knee-high boots to protect their lower legs from heat, road grime, and debris. Also, members wear special breeches that are reinforced for motorcycle wear. Leather jackets protect officers from the cold, as well as the potential of coming in contact with the pavement in the event of a fall. Helmets, gloves, and eye protection are worn at all times. Unit members can be recognized by the distinctive “winged wheel” insignia worn on the left breast of the uniform shirt.
Motor Unit Training
Officers assigned to the motor unit undergo an intense two-week training program developed by Northwestern University and Harley Davidson. This includes extensive slow riding practice, which is used in tight spaces and during parades. Officers also learn high speed maneuvering, braking, and obstacle avoidance. Re-training occurs every spring, to re-acclimate riders with new machines and polish skills.
The Police Motorcycle
Motor Unit members currently share a 2010 Harley Davidson Electra-Glide Police Motorcycle. The motorcycle is fully equipped with emergency lights and sirens and police radios, and weighs about 900 pounds. Although several manufacturers make police motorcycles, the Harley Davidson has been chosen every year, due to its durability, reputation, and because it is the preference of the motor unit officers. Leased for the year, the motorcycles are returned to the dealership for public sale at the end of the police riding season.
Motor Unit Duties
Motorcycle patrol offers several benefits to the community, including economy, visibility, and efficiency. Police motorcycles get 40 or more miles per gallon; more than double a patrol car. Wear and tear on the patrol cars is reduced, extending their usability. Although prisoners cannot be transported by motorcycle, virtually every other patrol function is handled by motor officers. Because of the superior maneuverability of the motorcycle, motor officers can respond quickly to any scene. Also, the motorcycle can go places where a patrol car can’t fit, such as parks, the walking trail, and off-road. Motor officers also represent the Police Department during parades and perform dignitary escorts.
The motor officer is a very visible part of our community. Today’s motor officer is friendly and wants to interact with the public. Requests to be photographed are both common and welcome, and a friendly wave or “thumbs up” is always appreciated.