The Motorcycle (Motor) Unit started its patrol efforts in the Village of Mount Pleasant in 1996. The department leased two Harley Davidson Police Road King motorcycles from Racine Harley Davidson located in the village. At that time the motors were used primarily for Community Policing efforts throughout the village. It allowed officers to connect with the community through a different approach other than a patrol car. While on the motorcycle’s, officers found that they were more approachable from the community and broke barriers often found with officers patrolling in the cars. The success of the motorcycles continued to grow allowing the unit to expand it’s focus to regular patrol.
Currently there are 3 officers assigned to the Motor Unit. The motor unit operates from April 1stthrough November 1st, but extends into late November weather permitting. The department is currently operating two 2007 Harley Davidson Police Road King and a 2019 Harley Davidson Police Electra Glide. Officers assigned to the Motor Unit operator just as they would if in a patrol car. They handle calls for service on a daily basis along with Community Policing efforts. Motor Officers are also called upon to provide police escorts for visiting dignitaries and special events.
Each Motor Officer is trained in the Northwestern University Police Motorcycle Operator program and attend annual in-service training.
