This article has been updated for accuracy.
In December 2024, the Raleigh Police Department Foundation furthered its commitment to public safety and innovation by donating four new Recon electric bikes to the department.
These state-of-the-art e-bikes are now used by officers to patrol downtown Raleigh and the city's public parks. Most notably, the bikes are enhancing mobility for officers assigned to the TRACE unit, particularly around the bustling downtown transit hub.
The addition of electric bikes allows officers to navigate high-foot-traffic areas more efficiently, making it easier to engage with the community and respond quickly to incidents.
“We scoot in and out of traffic and go into parking decks or shopping center areas,” said Officer DiCello in a recent interview. “In a car, you’re in that bubble—windows up, not really connecting with the public. On a bike, we’re present, visible, and accessible.”
Beyond mobility, the bikes represent a more sustainable approach to policing. Their quiet, zero-emission design aligns with Raleigh’s environmental goals while improving response times and increasing visibility in crowded or compact spaces.
This initiative reflects the City of Raleigh’s broader mission to build safer, more connected, and environmentally responsible neighborhoods—made possible through partnerships with organizations like the Raleigh Police Department Foundation.