(Milwaukee, WI)- On August 29, 2008 JSO Police Officer David Sciandran (photo right) won the Harley-Davidson 100th Anniversary Police Motorcycle Skills Competition. Sciandra competed against more than 100 competitors from around the United States, Canada and France.  JSO Police Officer Kurt Brown placed fourth in the competition.
 
These competitions are an integral piece of police training for the members of law enforcement agencies motor units.  JSO utilizes 17 motorcycle officers for traffic enforcement and special events, throughout Duval County. The motorcycles are more maneuverable and effective in traffic management and control than the traditional combination of police officer and squad car. However, due to being less visible on the road, and the lack of physical protection provided by a car, motorcycle police officers are more susceptible to serious injuries and death in on-duty traffic crashes.

The JSO's motor officers train each month and attend skills challenges throughout the year to hone their skills and work on eliminating the inherent dangers associated with this assignment.

Of the on-duty deaths experienced by law enforcement officers nationwide, the majority are in traffic chases and crashes, with motorcycles topping the list. Jacksonville is no exception.

"Since 1937 we have lost 10 motorcycle officers to traffic related accidents. These skills challenges and the training they provide are vital to the continued safety of our officers," said Sheriff John H. Rutherford. "Combining these training opportunities with a judged competition to determine who is "the best" makes it even more meaningful for the participants. We're proud of David Sciandra, a six year veteran of the motorcycle unit, and all the members of our squad," he said.

Harley Davidson will donate to the JSO one of the last 2008 "Road King Police Motorcycles" to come off the production line, as the reward for Sciandra's winning performance at the skills challenge.  Travel and expenses related to the competition were funded by private entities including: Adamec Harley-Davidson, Brumos Motors Inc., Morocco Shrine Motorcycle Escort, and the Fraternal Order of Police Foundation.

The mission of the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office is to protect the lives and property of the citizens of this community, to preserve the peace and to prevent crime and disorder while constantly guarding personal liberties as prescribed by law.
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