Buckeye officer completes motorcycle training as department reestablishes motor unit

PHOENIX — The first Buckeye police traffic officer completed training for the department’s newly reinstated motorcycle unit, authorities said.

Dante Herron’s graduation from the three-week motor school makes him certified in motorcycle patrol, according to the Buckeye Police Department.

Herron, who graduated in October, won a motorcycle pin as an award for being the first Buckeye PD officer to earn this certification.

Why did Buckeye police traffic officer get certified?

The city of Buckeye’s population is expected to grow to 200,000 residents by 2023.

The police department wants to enhance its traffic enforcement strategies to make sure it can adequately serve the expanding community.

Buckeye Police Chief Bob Sanders said the decision to reinstate the unit was influenced by feedback from locals.

“We are bringing back our motorcycle unit to be responsive to the community’s concerns,” Sanders said in a press release.

How can police officers on motorcycles help Buckeye residents?

Motorcycle patrol can help traffic teams in various ways. For instance, officers can keep a low profile and easy navigate congested traffic to more quickly respond to accidents.

“Motorcycle officers will allow us to improve traffic enforcement in all parts of the city, including downtown, along Monroe, plus neighborhoods and major intersections,” Sanders said.

The Buckeye Police Department is expected to receive three motorcycles by the end of the year.

“The idea to restart the motor unit was a suggestion by officers who are deeply engaged in problem-solving,” Sanders said. “We want our community to see this move as a reflection of our commitment to providing effective public safety service that improves quality of life while preventing devastating and deadly crashes.”