Community policing has become a major force with local law enforcement over the years, and one way that it's done effectively is by having officers patrolling on bikes.
But the Tampa Police Department haven't had the funds in their budget to purchase new bikes, and have been dependent on neighborhood groups and businesses to help out.
And those groups have responded, and on Tuesday a news conference was held at the Ybor City Hampton Inn to honor the motel as well as the GaYbor District Coalition, who came together to purchase a slick new $1,700 that will be used by the district's Community police officer, Sean Mahabir, who said having the bike to ride on will allow him to be more approachable with residents, business owners, and bad guys hanging out in the historic district.
This article appears in Jun 30 – Jul 6, 2011.