The Hempstead Bicycle Patrol Division focuses on being a visible crime prevention deterrent and available resource of assistance and information to the public. The Bicycle Patrol Division started in 2002 when past Chief R. Glenn Smith established a bicycle patrol program and scheduled several interested officers to attend an International Police Mountain Bicycle Association (IPMBA) Certification course.

The Bicycle Patrol Unit is a specialized part-time division. The Bicycle Patrol unit and it’s training is currently operated under the supervision of Sergeant Noel Shelton. Both full time officers and reserve officers take part in this specialized unit. The Bicycle Patrol Officers are mainly put to use during local events including parades, sporting events, festivals, and other special requested activities.

Each Bicycle Patrol Officer (including supervisors) has completed a rigorous 40-hour International Police Mountain Bicycle Association (IPMBA) Certification class. The Hempstead Police Department hosted it’s first International Police Mountain Bicycle Association (IPMBA) certification course in Spring of 2007.

EQUIPMENT:
Bicycle Patrol officers ride Cannondale Police Mountain Bikes that are heavy-duty enough to withstand being ridden day after day, riding often over curbs or down stairs, through in climate weather, and still provide reliable and safe transportation. The bikes are equipped with headlamps and reflectors as well as a back rack and carry-case. Presently, the unit has several bicycles in its fleet. The Bicycle Patrol officers wear a full Hempstead Police Department patrol uniforms with Helmet, Bike patrol pants or shorts, with agency provided cool max polo type shirt, as well as a full duty belt setup.