The Hillsdale PD's  Bicycle Patrol Unit  consists of a small number of officers assigned to patrol duties on bicycle in and around the Boro.  Seen at left, Sgt. Joe Mazzeo is pictured on bike patrol duty during the 'NJ & NY Fireman's Association Parade' which took place in June of 2002.   

Officers assigned to bike duty are specially trained to use our 18-speed 'Giant' Mountain Bikes.  The  Bicycle Patrol Unit is designed to allow the officer to interact easily with the community by patrolling the town without the use of an ordinary police car that can sometimes seperate the public from the officer.  As a result, these officers are easy to approach on the street, and they can pay special attention to the hard-to-patrol spots like the Boro's parks, schools, playgrounds and athletic fields.  These officers have undergone a State Certified Course in tactics on the bicycle, including stealth approaches and evasive manuevers on the bicycle. 

The Officers assigned to this unit need to be physically fit to endure the State's training program, as well as prepared to spend an eight-hour shift on the bicycle while on patrol around the Boro.  Sgt. Mazzeo, Sgt. McLaughlin, and P.O. Smith and P.O. Donaldson are currently assigned to the HPD's Bike Unit.  They can be seen patrolling the center of town during the spring and summer months, working crowd control on the bicycles during a Boro event at Beechwood Park, or riding along side the runners of the annual 5K Fun Run. 

The 'Bike Cops' are also available to the children around town who want to have their own bicycle checked for safety and security.  These officers can provide tips and advice about a child's bicycle... they cover how to prevent your bicycle from being stolen to safe riding and helmets.   

For more information about the Bike Unit, email sgt.mazzeo@hillsdalepolice.com