The History of the Coeur D’ Alene Police Department Motorcycle Unit
The Coeur d’Alene traffic unit started in 1920 after the City Council gave the approval to hire a “speed cop”. The city’s first motor officer was Julius Johnson who was employed with a monthly salary of $135.00.
The Coeur d’Alene Police Department again developed a motor division in the early 1950’s and the Harley Davidson was the motor of choice.
In 1995 the Community Accident Reduction through Education Team (C.A.R.E.) was established in an attempt to reduce the number of injury crashes in Coeur d’Alene. Using statistical data, CARE Officers work identified areas experiencing high crash rates or other traffic problems.
In June 2005, the Coeur d’Alene Police Department debuted 2 new Harley Davidson motorcycles after decades without these valuable traffic enforcement vehicles.
In 2009, a 3rd Harley Davidson motorcycle was added to the CARE Team.
This image fits well with the atmosphere of the City and the special events hosted here such as the Car d’Alene event and the classic wooden boat show.
The Coeur d’Alene Police Department along with the outstanding lease program provided by Lone Wolf Harley Davidson, Spokane Washington are able to utilize 3 new Harley Davidsons each year. This lease allows savings for the City of Coeur d’Alene in the way of vehicle maintenance, off season storage and depreciation costs.
Harley Davidson motorcycles were chosen because it’s more like the vintage “bikes” in the original police concept motor unit.
Information and Photos provided by the Coeur D’ Alene, ID Police Department.