OJAI : Bicycle Patrol Seeks Clubs’ Underwriting
Ojai sheriff’s deputies want to start patrolling by bicycle in some areas, but are asking service clubs to underwrite the costs of equipment and uniforms.
On three occasions this year, deputies have patrolled the downtown Arcade and Libbey Park area on bikes in response to complaints about vandalism, said Lt. Joe Harwell, who heads the Ojai sheriff’s substation.
But the officers had to use their own bikes and wear plain clothes because the Sheriff’s Department budget does not include money for new programs, Harwell said.
Rotary Club West of Ojai has expressed interest in raising the $3,500 it would cost to buy two bicycles and uniforms to make the patrols a regular feature, Harwell said. Officers like patrolling small areas, such as Ojai’s downtown area, on bicycles because they can cover ground quickly and travel quietly, he said.
It also makes officers more accessible to citizens, Harwell said.
A similar program instituted in Oxnard has been hailed by officers as a success. Harwell said he hopes to raise the money within three weeks.
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