Riding in Formation: FCPD’s Motor Squad

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Fairfax County, VA – A day in the life of FCPD’s Motor Squad looks like this: cruising down the highway on a motorcycle, with the wind rushing past, all while keeping a watchful eye on the streets for traffic violations or any sign of trouble.

What is the Motor Squad?

Fairfax County’s Motor Squad is a specialized unit comprised of 29 full-time officers, including one Lieutenant and two Sergeants. The motor officers, split into two squads working opposing shifts, handle tasks like traffic control, VIP escort, and rapid emergency response. What sets them apart is their mastery of handling motorcycles in challenging situations, making them a formidable force on the streets.

What Training Does the Motor Squad Require?

Becoming a member of our Motor Squad isn’t as simple as hopping on a motorcycle and hitting the road. It requires rigorous training and exceptional skills. Officers undergo extensive courses covering advanced riding techniques, defensive driving, and precision maneuvers. From navigating tight turns to executing quick stops, they can handle any situation with confidence and finesse.

Motor Squad Tools and Equipment

The motorcycle of choice for FCPD is the Harley Davidson’s “Street Glide” – Police Edition model. This motorcycle is customized with a radio created by a local engineer. This box houses the radio communications for the motorcycle. This helps better equip our officers when quickly responding to critical events.

Community Engagement

Beyond their enforcement duties, the Motor Squad plays a vital role in community engagement through outreach programs, demonstrations, and charity events.

  • Ride of the Patriots: This event originates in Fairfax City, then proceeds into Washington, D.C. The motor squad escorts these riders and ensures their safe travel, by redirecting traffic temporarily closing major roadways.
  • Honor Flight: Our motor officers participate in a charity which transports war veterans from area airports to the memorials in Arlington and Washington D.C. so they may pay their respects.
  • Santa’s Ride: The motor officers assigned to this seasonal mission are tasked with collecting toys for children who are housed in area hospitals, such as INOVA Fairfax and Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. These officers accept donations of unopened toys from the district stations, schools, and private partnerships. Santa and his helpers then ride throughout the County visiting participating schools and spreading holiday cheer.

Challenges and Risks

Despite their extensive training and experience, members of police motor squads face inherent risks every time they hit the road. From reckless drivers to adverse weather conditions, the dangers are ever-present. However, it’s their unwavering commitment to duty and their dedication to keeping the streets safe that drive them forward, regardless of the obstacles they may encounter.

The FCPD’s Motor Squad patrols Fairfax County with expertise and dedication demonstrating skill and determination in maintaining public safety. Their enforcement of traffic laws and emphasis on traffic safety is critical to protecting all drivers and pedestrians in our County.

For more on this and other traffic safety initiatives, notifications, and results, follow us on X, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.