Portsmouth Police Department Debuts Motorcycle Unit

PORTSMOUTH, RI — The Portsmouth Police Department officially unveiled its new motorcycle unit on Wednesday. The two-person unit will function like other patrol officers, but the department hopes the open-air bikes will facilitate more interactions between officers and members of the community.

The motorcycles will also represent the department at public events and parades as well as provide escorts during celebrations.

The two-person unit is compromised of Officers Maddie Pirri and Detective Jacob Silva. Pirri is believed to be the first female motorcycle officer in the state, the department said. Both officers completed mandatory 40-hour motorcycle training that was sponsored by the New England Police Vehicle Leasing.