Protecting and serving on two wheels - the Cleveland Police Department bike unit played a big role in making the RNC a success two years ago.
Now, that unit has transitioned into being a unit that is on the streets 365 days a year.
One hundred CPD Officers are trained to protect and serve on two wheels across the city.
On Wednesday, they hit the streets with Cleveland Council President Kevin Kelley.
“We ride up and down the streets. We talk to any resident who wants to talk to us,” said Kelley.
Many residents find it easier to approach a bike patrol officer.
“It’s less intimidating for a lot of people,” said Sarrah Smart, who lives in Cleveland.
The bike unit helps with protests, special events, answering calls and community policing. But, they also serve as a stealth crime-fighting tool.
“They’re looking for the police car around the corner. What they don’t see is the bicycle around the corner,” said Captain Thomas Mandzak with the Cleveland Bicycle Unit.
