The Eastwick Bike Patrol Rides Again
The story of the Eastwick Bike Patrol in Southwest Philadelphia has been a bit of a hobby-horse for this blog, but how much is too much to say about an organization of volunteers that puts the safety of its community ahead of its own? I’m happy to report that the Eastwick Bike Patrol is starting to get some concrete recognition for its members’ efforts. On Friday, U.S. Attorney Pat Meehan, State Senator Anthony Williams, and Carl Greene of the Philadephia Housing Authority held a press conference to announce a major grant to the Eastwick PAC. Part of that money will be going to the Eastwick Bike Patrol to pay for new bikes, bullet-proof vests, and other operational expenses. And its patrol area is expanding to cover the notorious Paschall Homes. I talked to Lieutenant Luther Chiles at the conclusion of the press conference about what the grant and accompanying recognition means for the Eastwick Bike Patrol:
According to Lieutenant Chiles, it was our previous YouTube video which was instrumental in bringing the Eastwick Bike Patrol to the attention of the U.S. Attorney’s office. It’s gratifying to think that one of our readers was sufficiently impressed by their story to see past the appalling production values of that video. Thanks!
ABP said,
September 10, 2007 @ 8:25 pm
Fantastic!
Thanks for the coverage of this press conference, this is really nice.
somegirl114 said,
September 11, 2007 @ 11:16 am
“It’s gratifying to think that one of our readers was sufficiently impressed by their story to see past the appalling production values of that video. Thanks!”
maybe they just really like Spoon?
LT. LUTHER CHILES said,
September 15, 2007 @ 9:20 pm
On behalf of the E.B.P. I would to thank every one who supported us and applaud our effort to sustain the quality of life that we all deserve . captain Grant was deeply moved by the support and encouragement displayed by every one. THANK YOU.
andrew said,
September 16, 2007 @ 11:37 am
Hey, thanks for stopping by Lt. Chiles. Keep up the good work with the EBP, and we’ll definitely keep supporting you!
???? said,
July 21, 2008 @ 7:09 am
good job trying to impersonate the police.. do all your “officers” threaten to cuff and aresset citizens engaging lawful activity. do you realize that is a felony
Les Apt said,
July 21, 2008 @ 7:28 am
Q: Whass da Eastwick Bike Patrol’s kids getting for Christmas this year?
A: Your bike.
Concernedcitizen said,
July 21, 2008 @ 6:18 pm
I commend you on your efforts. But it has come to my attention that one of your own (at least one) has begun to impersonate an officer of the law. He has threatened someone with arrest for a violation that does not exist. If you want to actually enforce the laws beyond what any average citizen can do, get LEO training and certification. Until then, lose the badges and attitudes.
Your group has crossed the line into impersonating police officers who are under strict guidelines and civilian control. If you continue to do so, you will be arrested and disbanded as either a vigilante group, or for impersonating law enforcement.
Again, I appreciate what you started out to do. It is turning south quickly and you must reign it in as soon as possible.
You cannot violate other peoples rights because you have good intentions.
That has never and never will cut it in the United States and our Constitution.
andrew said,
July 21, 2008 @ 11:13 pm
Hi ConcernedCitizen,
Thanks for your note, but it appears that the situation you’re describing is actually a case of someone impersonating a member of the Eastwick Bike Patrol. The members of the EBP are well aware that they are not police officers.
Andrew
Concernedcitizen said,
July 22, 2008 @ 7:11 pm
My apologies to your organization.
I still give my commendations for what you guys are doing. I was afraid one or more of your members went rogue since there is less oversight/overview than say, official police units etc.
I think it would behoove all to not only try to find this person out but think about what type of controls and policies need to be in place to prevent other scenarios from happening that would give LEO and yourselves a ‘black eye’ in the public opinion arena.