Foundation raises money for police e-bikes | City news

The Scottsdale Police Foundation has launched a fundraising initiative to purchase electric bikes for the Scottsdale Police Department.

The goal of this initiative is to improve officer mobility and response time, particularly in urban areas where traditional vehicles can pose challenges.

“When a call comes in, time is of the essence. That’s why we want to do everything we can to help our officers get to the scene faster,” said foundation founder Debbie Steinhauer. “E-bikes significantly expand the range of action for police officers on bicycles.”

E-bikes are of great benefit to police as they allow officers to reach areas that would otherwise be inaccessible by car, enable faster response times in emergency situations and provide a versatile option for patrol work, she added.

The Scottsdale Police Department plans to purchase 13 e-bikes and necessary protective equipment to enhance its local policing efforts.

“E-bikes are a game changer for us,” said Sergeant Michael Clore. “They allow us to quickly navigate through traffic and reach places that are inaccessible to patrol cars. This means we can have a greater presence in the community and respond faster when every second counts.”

The integration of e-bikes will bring a number of benefits, according to the foundation, including:

• Improved mobility: “E-bikes allow our officers to move more quickly and efficiently through the city center, especially in congested locations where vehicles cannot easily reach,” it says. “This agility can be critical for faster response times and in responding to emergencies.”

• Accessibility: “E-bikes can reach areas that are difficult for traditional vehicles to reach, such as narrow alleys, pedestrian areas, parks or hiking trails. This accessibility can be critical in search and rescue operations or when responding to incidents in crowded areas.”

• Stealth operations: “E-bikes are a quieter and less conspicuous means of transport than conventional patrol cars. This is an advantage for special operations, surveillance trips or the discreet approach to suspects.”

• Health benefits: “E-bikes contribute to the overall long-term health and fitness of our officers while still encouraging physical activity but reducing strenuous movements and lower body exertion.”

Individuals and businesses in Scottsdale are asked to support this important initiative.

“Community engagement is essential, whether through financial contributions or participation in foundation events and programs,” the foundation said. “Such support directly advances the mission of the Scottsdale Police Foundation and improves the safety and well-being of the Scottsdale community.”

The e-bike initiative is just one part of the foundation’s broader commitment to supporting the Scottsdale Police Department.

Other key programs include the Officer Grant Request Program, which reimburses officers for personal expenses to assist community members in need, and the Police Athletic/Activities League (PAL) programs, which are planned to be expanded to all schools in the district.

In addition, the Foundation continues to support The Closet initiative, which provides essentials to those in need, and is working to establish scholarships for young people pursuing careers in policing.

Information: scottsdalepolicefoundation.org.