The Murfreesboro Police Department has suspended its motorcycle program after three officers were recently injured in crashes.
The department began looking into the program after Officer Matthew Stern was critically injured while responding to a crash back in July.
On Tuesday, Officer Chris Harris and Officer Chris Waters were involved in a minor injury crash, prompting officials to suspend the program until they have time to fully evaluate the issue.
Officers assigned to the motor unit will be issued police cars until further notice.
Murfreesboro Police Chief Karl Durr issued the following statement:
“Following Officer Matt Stern’s motorcycle crash, staff began discussing the use and deployment of police motorcycles. Lt. Clayton Williams has been collecting policies from other agencies so as to make an informed recommendation to command staff on the risk and rewards of various options regarding motorcycles and responses to vehicle crashes. MPD officers respond to over 5,000 vehicle crashes annually, making it one of the most frequent calls for service.
Today, Officer Chris Harris and Officer Chris Waters were involved in a minor injury crash. This prompted us to expedite the evaluation of the motorcycle program. Until the issue is fully discussed and evaluated, we will implement a safety stand down of the motorcycle program. Effective immediately, officers assigned to the motor unit will conduct traffic operations in police issued cars until further notice.”
