Kansas City, KS — In 1912 the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department became one of the fi rst police departments in the nation to use a motorcycle on patrol, primarily to increase response time. The Motorcycle Unit was formed in 1914, consisting of three Motorcycle Offi cers. The unit remained active until it was disbanded in 1974.
In 1991 the Motorcycle Unit was reestablished, thanks to a federal grant. The research and grant submission by then Offi cer Rick L. Armstrong (Chief of Police 2010- present) strongly supported the effectiveness of motorcycles in enforcement, pursuits, and response to traffi c violators and accidents.
Rear row, from left: David Weaver, Jimmy Thompson, Shane Carpenter, Tony Burks, James Pollock, John Nash, James Zager, John Whaley, Steve Rios, Troy Bennett Front row, from left: Sgt. Gary Todd, Capt. Moses Toledo, Maj. Tom McMillan, Sgt. Jason Allen. Information and photos provided by the Kansas City, KS Police Department.
Rogers, AR — In April 2011, a Motor Offi cer Skills Competition was held in Rogers, Arkansas. Pig Trail Harley- Davidson sponsored this inaugural event for the area motor offi cers. The event was designed to alert, inform and educate the public on Motor Cycle Safety and to benefi t local police charities in the process. The event kicked off the National Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Motorcycle Awareness Month of May.
This unique competition offered a Traveling Trophy for the Top Rider who was able to represent their depart- ment. Alex Chambers of Tulsa PD received this honor.
The 2012 NWA Skills Competition is scheduled for April 27 & 28, 2012 in Rogers, Arkansas. Submitted by Cpl. Robert Hargus, Fayetteville PD, Fayetteville AR