Why I Wear The Badge - Chapter 8: LA Motor Officer

Keeping our roads safe is the primary mission of the California Highway Patrol. South Los Angeles Motor Officer Melissa Handley has spent the last 24 years committed to doing just that. In this video, we take a closer look at the role of a motor officer and highlight her two and a half decades of service.

[@MGCOHN]

18 years of being on that bike must make one hell of a skilled rider! Motor officers are on another level!

[@scarecrow6741]

I was in a small diner today called Dagwood's Cafe eating lunch when three KCMO police officers walked in to eat. As they waited for a table they joked around with the cook and waitress. They were all laughing and having a good time. They ended up sitting at the table behind me. I could tell that they were well known to all the people there. I live on the other side of the city and only eat there once a month or so. After I finished my meal my younger brother and I got up to leave. As I was paying the check at the counter I told the waitress that I wanted to pay for their meals. She totaled it up, I paid the bill and she asked me if I wanted her to wait until after I left to tell them. I told her no that I wanted to thank them for what they do and tell them myself. As we shook each of their hands they looked grateful for the hand shake and the thank you. Then I told them their food was on me. They were shocked. You see, my older brother was a CHP back in the 70's and after his passing, I get the pleasure of doing this in his honor.

[@michaelspong2056]

Very sorry for the passing of your brother😰😰🙏🙏💙💙

[@BluFlame3712]

Awesome gesture! 💛💙👮🏽‍♂️👮‍♀️

[@seth3434]

I am sorry for your loss. And also, congrats on getting hearted by the CHP!

[@poohbearmom64]

It's a few days after PW 2021 in October... I just saw this reply of yours and I just want to say Condolences on the passing of your brother 😥💙🙏🙏🙏🙏 Thanks for sharing your story ❤️ and caring for those CHP Officers the way they deserve to be treated and cared about ❤️💙🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@sherrywyllie2163]

Dad joined 1965. I joined 1980. Loved the job and loved the people.

[@panosxam9131]

God bless you and all yοur partners from greece !!!

[@benjaminclement8965]

God bless you all your partners from France !

[@stoplegalthieves8653]

You can love your love and not steal from the people that pay for your livelihood. You're brainwashed, wake up.

[@kianahandley6012]

That is my aunt and I love her

[@Alex10daysago]

She hit on me. No lie. I told her I had a boyfriend then got all cold.

[@ashlovee7712]

God bless your aunt!

[@Yama00]

SO DO YOU TWO HAVE A LIVE STREAM?

[@CrabtreeGuitar]

She seems like a great person. The reasons she listed are pretty much the same reasons I listed in my first oral board interview. Still waiting but I'm hoping. Going from classical guitarist, to math degree, to cop applicant. I'm probably not the most solid applicant 🤞

[@czi125]

Ronald Crabtree You’d be surprised with who they hire based on their impressions of you from the interview and process alone! I know a Sheriff’s Department recruiter who hired a butcher because they impressed the deputy so much through the process.

[@Sam-fl2sy]

thank you for your service

[@g4orge_911]

Big respect for those officers

[@2CHACHOUU]

PIGS RESPECTING ONE ANOTHER,lol

[@metrohunter50]

@@2CHACHOUU idiot

[@metrohunter50]

@@2CHACHOUU i think big is you

[@hogwildbowhunter]

Thank you for your service, With a special debt of gratitude to the motor officers. We the public majority support you all, despite what Gavin signs into law. We appreciate the all who are the thin blue line!

[@johnkim7802]

Amen Richard!

[@2CHACHOUU]

what service BREAKING THE LAW,VIOLATING CITIZENS,S RIGHTS.

[@geriw7346]

Hello from long beach, Thank you sooo very much for your service with CHP, you are a true American Hero to me

[@panosxam9131]

I love american police and espessialy the chp !!! God bless all the officers respect from greece !!!🇬🇷🇺🇸

[@manishmkt]

same here.

[@johnkim7802]

@panos xam Appreciate how you look at policing around the world and have respect for our police in the U.S. It can be so easy to take it for granted but we have great officers!

[@panosxam9131]

@@johnkim7802 i think america is the best as for the police in everything (cars ,uniforms , weapons , system,training) and if i could became an officer I would became only in america because in my country police are amateurs . Police,nature,cars and storm chasing are the reason that i love america like my own country and country music of cource !!!

[@OGsDangerShow]

I’m a Greek CHP Officer! Family from Samos.

[@panosxam9131]

@@OGsDangerShow awesome I am from north macedonia ,serres !!! Congratsulations !!! I am very happy for greeks that they are officers in america . Can we became friends in facebook i want to learn about your expirience in chp???

[@steponasp.5706]

Chp strikes again with an awesome vid. Nice work!

[@psalms27sneadspd46]

Love CHP.👍

[@patricksmith2553]

Yes I agree and I especially enjoyed the footage of her riding on the Vincent St. Thomas bridge that spans the Los Angeles harbor and Port of Long Beach/Los Angeles. It's the only cool bridge in the Los Angeles area, and there is actually only one other water span in San Diego. The Bay area has so many cool bridges, but this is my area's one and only!

[@FabulousMakeupByHope]

What a strong charismatic woman! I broke down when she started crying. ❤️

[@josepalomares6814]

Thank you for your service Melissa! 💙👮‍♀️

[@unixadm]

Great vid. Having almost joined the CHP in 2007, I am envious every time I see a CHP Officer. It's a damn tough job, but I respect each and every Officer doing it. I never considered any other agency in LE than the CHP. If you're going to do it, go for the best there is, right? I only have one regret in life and it was passing on that opportunity, but I'm thankful I got to test in West Sac and go on some great ride alongs. it was an absolute honor and one of the best experiences of my life. Be safe out there and thank you for your service.

[@eternalpeaxe27]

I know this is a bit of an old comment. But what led up to you dropping out if you don’t mind me asking

[@michaelspong2056]

Absolutely wonderful job Motor Officer Handley. Without a doubt, the best job in the World. Nice to see you found a good fit on Motors. I loved riding as well and went thru Motor School at the Academy in '81. My favorite part of riding Motors was riding nice and tight tandem formation with another Motor...all about skill and concentration. About half way thru the video, it shows you putting your kickstand up...but somehow they got a reverse image and it shows the kickstand and shifter on the right side of your Motor...very strange looking as I have around 300,000 miles on Harleys. Keep up the good job you're doing and have fun in spite of so much negativity toward LE today. Very proud of what you've accomplished knowing the washout rate at Motor School has always run around 50% and sometimes as high as 75%. You either learn to ride well or the Sgt leads you off the EVOC course to the shed to turn in your Motor.

[@kathleenlubanski1670]

We've always known Melissa to be the BEST! Thank you for your wonderful Service and Inspiration!

[@kathleenlubanski1670]

Per Michael, Wow Melis! So proud of YOU for doing your best for all these years. You've always been number ONE with me!

[@connielipp8648]

Excellent video...."Thank You All" for your service...you are soooo appreciated...love to you

[@alexbattenberg5638]

Awesome! Thank you, Ma'am for your service! Ride safely!

[@edbrown2061]

I completely support the CHP. Both my sister and brother in law are officers. I am grateful for the work you all do. Looking at the video background though I can’t but understand why so many people are leaving LA and California all together. It’s falling apart. I couldn’t stand LA anymore and finally took a leap and moved. If we didn’t love the ocean so much, we probably would have left the state as well. To the officers, thank you for making our highways safer. I know you can’t catch everyone and they seem to know it too. Be safe and know most of us are behind you even if the media says otherwise.

[@jusstmee]

My husband is a veteran CHP officer, 23 yrs on the job. Came from MI. He said it's all he ever wanted to do. His stories are so wonderful. Thank you, all law enforcement. Love you chippers!!!

[@davidw.7275]

Thank you for your service Melissa!! More appreciated than words can say. Glad to have officers like you on the road with us!

[@jjett57]

Thanks Melissa. Melissa is a great public safety officer and it shows in her professionalism and service. She also a great neighbor.

[@kaubritoAraujo]

Wonderful video, thank you for your service M.Handley. My respect for those USA officers...

[@stumpjumper1dc]

Thanks Officer Handley. You rock!

[@spuds94bravo56]

Thank you for your service!!!

[@michaeltolsdorf865]

I was with the 1st Armored Division " Old Ironsides", 501st MP Company, O'Brien Barracks, Schwabach, West Germany, from 1/78 to 1/80. I served as a CHP officer from 1/81 to 1/02. Thank you for your service with the 3rd AD.

[@randymcnaught5583]

Thank you and your fellow officers for the jobs you do daily. I had 30+ years with the Ontario Provincial Police in 🇨🇦, and 19 years on motorcycle patrol. Also 17 years on our MC demonstration team (OPP Golden Helmets). Best damn job going. Be safe; ride safe & play safe.

[@poohbearmom64]

Well done video 👏👏 Thank You CHP motorcycle Officer Melissa Handley for your service, dedication and inspiration to women in CHP 😎😃💙🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@poohbearmom64]

If it's possible for you .... Please come to PW 2020 next May at the National Law Enforcement Museum / Memorial.... I would enjoy meeting you and more CHP 😃😃😎💓💙💙💓 I'm a Volunteer there 😁

[@dennisseger6717]

Mad respect to you for those years on a motor. Keeping yourself in great shape too to represent CHP. Stay safe.

[@TekTrekgamer]

Great video CHP. Melissa is an inspiration to the up and coming. Thank you for all that you do keeping California safe.

[@terryhawkins5585]

THANK YOU ALL THE MEN AND WOMAN WHO DO THE JOB THE BEST THEY KNOW HOW

[@tim-ber2606]

Melissa I am proud to see you recognized that there is a difference in a male officer and a female officers way of dealing with people and the situations they are in. It takes both to deal with certain situations and I can tell you really do care and are there for the right reasons. (SALUTE)

[@davidw.7275]

Tim-ber I’ll second that motion! Couldn’t have said it better myself! :)

[@josephandrew8510]

She is a wonderful person and I have never met her............. Ride Safe Sistah.

[@jimratliff2753]

That's a tough ride for her. Motor cops are typically pretty macho dudes and that is cool too but she did it and this is super cool. Looks like she fit in well - lots of years at it made her great at the job. Way to go girl!

[@Kwhopperfan]

Thank you for your service Motor Officer Melissa Handley. What an awesome accomplishment! Another time or another life I dreamed of becoming a motor officer, whether it was my love of the show, motorcycles or wanting to make the highways and byways safer (my dad is a lifetime truck driver) and heard crazy stories while growing up. You are needed out there. Thank you.

[@carlosmadera8474]

My eyes watered. I love the California Highway Patrol. Soon I will join them to set another legacy and set an example. God willing and he gives me that opportunity to work for them here soon. God bless my future family, the California Highway Patrol.

[@AP-kk4ys]

I work as a dispatch supervisor for Florida Hwy Patrol dispatching our troopers to accidents and other incidents. 30 years doing the job and have 7 more years to go. I love working with my troopers.

[@hairyparatestes1183]

I went to Golden West JC in Huntington Beach in early 90’s to study Criminal Justice with the goal of working LAPD. Wanted Rampart or 77th Division. That was where the action was. People would ask why I wanted to wear a badge. My answer was because of the radio call. You never knew what the next call would be but damn good chance the call was going to be exciting.

[@GA-cy8hm]

Thank you for your sincerity! I am looking forward to making it into the academy and passing in 2020. Thank you for your service.

[@SandraHof]

Very nice interview! I understand about your family’s feelings of being proud and worrying for your safety. My brother Ron was on CHP for nearly 40 years. In fact for awhile he was senior officer for the whole State just before he retired. He worked motors 15 years, also out of the South LA office. Then he transferred up to northern California and worked the roads in a patrol car until retirement in 2006. I have always been very proud of him, as I was of our father, who retired from LAPD after 30 years. I am grateful they safely made it to retirement. Though there were many close calls, as I am sure she has had.

[@dethray1000]

the chp has evolved into one of the best depts there is--not so true in the past because of their leadership--they are awesome dept now,highly respected

[@adriansavastian8774]

You are one of the few people, who have the courage to do that on motorcycle! Respect

[@Robertmacmedia]

What a great. Successful young lady 👍🏼

[@dennisbloom6714]

Very cool. Thanks for what you do. Your the best !

[@budstephens7239]

I truck thru all 48 states , I’m really beginning to like the CHP officers when I’m out that way .... good job protecting the public CHP !!!!

[@SoCal780]

I used to but now just run the Midwest. I had many interactions with CHP officers when I lived out there. They were all respectful, professional, and downright cool as hell. Even when I would get a ticket (and it happened a few times!), the interaction would still end with a handshake and a “be safe” from both of us. It was never personal. I was doing my job and they were doing theirs, simple as that. Btw, many of them let me go with just a warning! 👍

[@leonporter321]

You have done an outstanding job. Thanks for helping to protect and serve the citizens of California.

[@SoCal780]

Awesome video! I lived in SoCal for 22 years and always had great admiration and respect for the CHP. In fact, I even applied back in 1993 and passed the written test. Unfortunately, the vision restriction kept me from advancing through the process. I would’ve loved that job, just as you do. Thank you for your dedicated service, you are valued and appreciated. God Bless!

[@jcnme2020]

Thank You for Sharing your story with us. God Bless you and keep you in his care Always My Friend. Rubber side Down.

[@mcookxsh]

Awesome video!!! Great job CHP and Officer Handley! Keep up the good work.

[@matthewkelly4335]

Thank you so much for the service to the community. I can tell you are very passionate about the job! There will a big hole when you retire from the CHP. We need more female officers in the CHP!

[@b9bot148]

Congrats for 24 years and thank you for your service.

[@bwsing01]

Thank you for your service! And much respect to you and ALL LEO'S out there from UTAH!

[@mccgunter]

I appreciate your service and passion for being the best you can be.

[@terryhawkins5585]

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE OFFICER MELISSA

[@terencebigt3825]

I had dreams of being a CHP Motorcycle officer as a kid but i chose a career with an east coast state police agency. It was cool but in my mind, i still think about being a CHP. Safety to all good Officers out there. God Bless

[@josecoby7625]

Thank you Officer Handley for you amazing years of service. I grew up in the Los Angelos area and of course growing up my favorite TV show was CHiPs, unfortunately be cause of having 20/100 vision in my left eye prevented me from ever being a Police Officer in any capacityi. California, but in Indiana its not a problem, and I have been a Police Officer now for about 5 years, and love it. I will also agree females do see the world differently, and I love having a female Officer prespective on things. Stay safe out there.

[@woodsman1382]

It took less time for me to cry on this video then most Iv'e seen like these and it took 6:49 to know that there are still people out there that wanted a carrier in there lives like you had and that my parents taught me as a young man. I'm in my 31 year working at my company and there is no better satisfaction then to give your all and to know that you've made a difference in the company you worked for proud for. And that your work and your time is so appreciated and that you can retire all be it sometimes hard to give up the job, live, rest and enjoy life to it's fullest. One day I will give up the sword of honer and pass it on and retire myself.

[@TimSmith-uc4pk]

Great Story Trooper Handley. Be Safe Out There On Those Interstates.

[@darrens.4322]

Wonderful officer, wonderful video tribute: Thank you!

[@Mc007-]

Thank you for all you have given. It truly seems like you enjoy your job.

[@jodycasey4541]

This video gives me great pride. I love that this was created, thanks so much for sharing!

[@reedhelmer45]

Awesome! Much love to CHP and all law enforcement!

[@djlashman]

I always thank LEO at every opportunity I get and always pray that they are save and I would be the first person to come and defend them whenever they are in any kind of trouble.....

[@terryhawkins5585]

THEY DO A DANGEROUS JOB AND PROTECTTHE PEOPLE OF ANY CITY OT TOWM THANKS TO ALL THE OFFICERS WHO RISK THERE LIFE FOR ALL OF US CITIZENS THANK YOU OFFICERS SO MUCH

[@samuel9272]

I wish to if the situation in the UK doesn't work out with moving and getting a job and applying, I know I need a motorcycle licence and Ik what's required it's just the commitment that is need. I've basically become a fan boy of CHP Motor units in Role play I'm always on the bike doing the job I wish I could. I thank all the men and women of the CHP for their personal sacrifice that they make day and night.

[@Herogus3xD]

God bless her & a lot of respect to her!

[@stevekrueger3281]

Thank you for your service Officer Handley! Great video CHP! Stay safe out there!

[@costikkelev-ra2741]

Thank you for your service, Melissa

[@elviraarriaga1424]

Thank You for Your Service Officer Melissa Handly and like Your bike

[@jeffg923]

From one motor officer to another, Good Job on the video, Love the work, Love the job, Love the life.

[@johnkim7802]

I am not a motor officer but have so much respect for y'all! Y'all are special and a combination of modern day cowboys defending the wilderness and even leading other LEOs in many ways!

[@lisadavis1795]

Thank you ma’am for your service💙🖤

[@Towing417]

Very cool! Thank you for sharing!!

[@JonnyDeeFilms]

That’s my first phase FTO right there! Way to go Melissa!!

[@hamzadarragi1951]

Thank you for your service 💐💐💐

[@frenchfrench3953]

Congrats, Madam !

[@Right_Wing_V]

Keep doing a good job trust me ca is hard I’ve driven 300,000 miles pro just in ca alone all my tickets were in ca lol sadly but only one of those tickets were bad as far as the officer who responded to me other than that you guys were very professional FYI the reason why I was pulled over was because my car had chute blocking my license plate and officer could not read my plate so he made me take off my chute which I have done with me and my gang other than that thank you for your service Melissa!!

[@MFFMinorFamilyFarms]

Appreciate you. Thank you for your service to your community 👍

Another great video from the CHP! Thank you for your service Melissa Handley!!!!

[@danielwebb9306]

You be safe officer an thank you for your service glad to see more women on motorcycle keep up the great job

[@morales2976]

Thank you for your service!!

[@HarleyDavidsonVHMMC]

God bless you all and keep you safe.

[@jojotheweirdone]

I think it’s sad that bad cops outshine the good ones. Most cops are beautiful humans, thank you all for what you do.

[@randykiomall8377]

Most cops are phycopaths

[@oei301]

Officer Handley you rock simply said.

[@jeffbasalto5274]

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE❤👍

[@martintrejo7307]

Great job the best highway patrol of California 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@silvercreekcrossing]

I am inspired. My father rode a gold wing .

[@jeffbasalto5274]

GREAT VIDEO THANK YOU FOR YOUR SEVICE GOD BLESS ALL THE MEN AND WOMEN OF THE C H P ❤👍🚒

[@TemeculaDoug]

I wonder how many female motor officers there have been in CHP? I havent seen any in the Border Div at all

[@khallilmarshall]

Total I'm not sure, but this officer just retired. So there's only 1 female motor officer in the state now.

[@jimmy22334]

Bobby Brady what a close minded and ignorant response. I hope Trooper Handley gives you a ticket if you’re ever in South LA.

[@anthonyanderson6328]

I'm a female and I used to be chp

[@siwhatscrackn]

Awesome vid thank u for all U and All peace officers due everyday and night to protect us even if most wont agree cause there is many that speak but a Few that act on the calling. Job well done.

[@92jgm]

Super inspiring and motivating!!! Yes! 😍❤️❤️

[@Gcal1956]

U folks should just admit that you loved “CHiPs” as kids. 😂

[@fidelcatsro6948]

TRUE!!! Especially the Kawsaki KZ1000 they were on!!

[@marcbile]

agree

[@davidlyons8278]

Very very proud of you….. big hug….

[@williamdobbins3131]

A veteran, I wanted to be CHP. I applied, did the physical and all that. Got shot down in the interview. Was asked why my recruiter didn't prep me. What recruiter? During the whole process, I was never contacted by anyone.

[@christopherwilson539]

I believe that's the first female motorcycle officer I have seen. That's amazing

[@mikesampont6091]

Awesome lady!

[@jimrogers9253]

good for you young lady!

[@Senegal01]

I retired in 1990 and really miss the people and the job.

[@adriansalas8424]

Not pro police, but she's willing to make a positive difference and do a good job. She's an awesome person and cop! Hope she continues and retires safely.

[@AE-oi1ln]

she has super cool hair!

[@elviraarriaga1424]

Great Video Content and like the Police lady Officers motorcycle

[@jchors2947]

Wow, 24 years in S.L.A. She's a survivor!