FAIRFIELD TWP. — Police Officer Wendy Jackson can now combine her hobby with her job — at least on good weather days.

        The two-year Fairfield Township officer on Tuesday became part of the department's first bicycle patrol. She and Officer Jim Souhrada, a four-year veteran, volunteered for the pilot program that puts officers on specially designed Cannondale mountain bikes in township subdivisions.

        “I volunteered because I've enjoyed riding for years,” said Officer Jackson. “It's one of my loves.”

        The township recently received a $2,500 federal law enforcement block grant to pay for the equipment, uniforms and helmets. The township's share is $500 plus a minimal fee to put the two officers through training, said Fairfield Township Police Chief Richard St. John.

        The 27-speed, 18-inch-frame, white bicycles with blue markings were designed for police use and include headlights that can be dimmed, red lights in back that flash or strobe sideways, and reflective tape on both the bike and the cargo bag attached to the back.

        Initially, the two officers will be assigned bike patrol for part of two or three shifts a week, weather permitting, the chief said. Officers will mount the bikes on their cruisers and drive to subdivisions for a four- to six-hour stretch. The bikes will not be used on major thoroughfares.

        “The primary purpose is to get on a more personal basis with the people in the township,” Chief St. John said.

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