According to Jackson’s finest, two fairly new additions to the force have proven to be an invaluable tool in traffic control. Officers Jeff Courtney and Victor Capaz are Jackson’s Motorcycle Officers. Inevitable similarities to the characters in the television show “CHiPs” has earned them both some friendly razzing. The bikes are praised for there many advantages in catching and pursuing law breakers. Courtney’s bike, a dual sport with off-road capabilities, is known for its maneuverability. Capaz drives a standard street cycle more suitable for pursuing traffic violators. But the freedom of being light and maneuverable on the road is also a vulnerability.

Both officers were quick to note the dangers involved in motorcycle riding. “The general public truly does not see a motorcycle,” says Courtney. Both officers recalled times when pedestrians and other vehicles moved right out in front of their path. Based on the tracking of collisions in Jackson, the majority of motorcycle accidents occur between Schober and Frenchbar Roads on Highway 49, a particularly dangerous area for motorcycles.

Overall, the bikes have proved an advantage to the force. Since their addition almost two years ago, the two bike officers have significantly increased the number of traffic stops per day. According to Capaz, a single bike officer makes an average of 15 to 20 more traffic stops per day. The officers operate in random locations and caution motorists to obey the rules of the road. The most common violations include speeding and rolling through stop signs.