'Cpl. Mike On A Bike' Bettering Bel Air For 20 Years

Perhaps best known for his work with schools and bike patrol, Cpl. Michael Clymer is a friendly face of the Bel Air Police Department the community will sorely miss.

Clymer, now in his final weeks before retirement, will officially leave the force on January 8, 2013.

"We're going to greatly miss Mike and his ability to obtain confessions by tallking endlessly with suspects," Bel Air's de facto mayor, Edward Hopkins said with a laugh during Monday's town meeting.

Clymer started with the Bel Air Police Department in June of 1993 after 20 years with the Baltimore County Police Department and 25 years with the Maryland National Guard.

Hopkins said "Cpl. Mike on a Bike" is a well-known saying around town, and one he feels is a respectful and light-hearted reference to the familiar figure.

"Somehow 'Graziano on a Bike' is not going to fit," Hopkins said referring to another Bel Air Police officer.

Both Hopkins and Commissioner Susan Burdette talked about their children's familiarity with Clymer through his role as a school police officer.

"His presence in our schools has always included that little extra step that only Mike could give," Hopkins said.

Chief Leo Matrangola said he often asks officers "how would Clymer handle this" before they make a decision. Matrangola explained that if officers handle a situation as Clymer would, it will be done quickly, professionally and in a way the citizens of Bel Air will respect.

Clymer was promoted to Corporal in November 2004. He will continue working as a patrol supervisor until his retirement.