2023 OP Summer Newsletter

Last year, the Orland Park Police Department re-introduced the Bike Patrol Unit back in to the force. Since then, the Unit has grown and become an integral part of keeping Orland Park safe. The Unit is designed to utilize alternative patrol techniques to address all types of criminal activity. Besides routine patrol routes, bicycle patrol officers are available for special functions such as block parties and community events. The unit is comprised of three officers, Officer Ryan Barth, Officer Alex Laphen and Officer Mike Howley. They ride six days a week, logging up an average of 120 miles per officer a week. “Our day usually consists of checking around the local parks, the mall and wherever else we are needed.” said Officer Mike Howley, “We ride most of the day, keeping supplies we need for ourselves or others on our bikes, water, bandages, etc.” Bicycles provide officers with greater mobility and agility, allowing them to navigate through congested areas and traffic more efficiently than conventional police cars. This enhanced mobility results in quicker response times to incidents, improving overall public safety. ORLAND PARK POLICE DEPARTMENT BIKE PATROL UNIT

“One of the best perks of our job is our ability to be in the community and to interact with the public at events. To let them know who we are and that we are here.” said Officer Alex Laphen One of the primary benefits of bike patrol units is the increased interaction between officers and the community. The approachability of officers on bikes fosters a friendlier and less intimidating environment, encouraging citizens to approach them with concerns or information. The Orland Park Police Department Bike Patrol Unit is one of the newer additions to the force, but they are already becoming a favorite in the community. Catch them riding around Orland Park or at your favorite Village events. Officer Ryan Barth is the latest to join the Bike Patrol Unit

| Summer 2023 | Orlandpark.org

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