CHiPs
"CHiPs," which stood for California Highway Patrol, followed the daily beats of two state motorcycle patrolmen as they patrolled the freeway system in and around Los Angeles. Officer Jon Baker was the straight, serious officer while Frank "Ponch" Poncherello was the more free- wheeling member of the duo; both reported to Sgt. Joe Getraer, who gave out assignments and advice in handling the cases. Each episode saw a compilation of incidents, ranging from the humorous (e.g., a stranded motorist) to criminal investigations (such as hijackings) and tragic incidents (such as a fiery multi-car pile-up with multiple deaths. Other aspects of Ponch and Jon's daily work were highlighted as well; the social lives of both officers (they were both single) often provided the lighter moments. On occasion, Ponch and Jon were assisted by a female "Chippie" at first, the very beautiful Sindy Cahill; and later, the more wholesome Bonnie Clark. In 1982, Ponch got a new partner, Bobby Nelson (series star Wilcox left the show that year), while Nelson's younger brother, Bruce, was a trainee on the force. By now, the female "Chippie" was the attractive Kathy Lindahan.
- 1977-1983
- 6 seasons
- Me-TV
- Suspense, Drama
- TV-G
"CHiPs," which stood for California Highway Patrol, followed the daily beats of two state motorcycle patrolmen as they patrolled the freeway system in and around Los Angeles. Officer Jon Baker was the straight, serious officer while Frank "Ponch" Poncherello was the more free- wheeling member of the duo; both reported to Sgt. Joe Getraer, who gave out assignments and advice in handling the cases. Each episode saw a compilation of incidents, ranging from the humorous (e.g., a stranded motorist) to criminal investigations (such as hijackings) and tragic incidents (such as a fiery multi-car pile-up with multiple deaths. Other aspects of Ponch and Jon's daily work were highlighted as well; the social lives of both officers (they were both single) often provided the lighter moments. On occasion, Ponch and Jon were assisted by a female "Chippie" at first, the very beautiful Sindy Cahill; and later, the more wholesome Bonnie Clark. In 1982, Ponch got a new partner, Bobby Nelson (series star Wilcox left the show that year), while Nelson's younger brother, Bruce, was a trainee on the force. By now, the female "Chippie" was the attractive Kathy Lindahan.
Season 4 Episode Guide
21 Episodes 1980 - 1981
Episode 1
Go-Cart Terror
Sun, Sep 21, 1980 48 mins
There is a Go-Cart race between a club organized by the CHP, against a club organized by firefighters. They also have to find a few burglars.
Episode 2
Sick Leave
Sun, Sep 28, 1980 48 mins
The CHiPs try to persuade a fellow officer to take sick leave after he takes unnecessary risks.
Episode 3
To Your Health
Sun, Oct 5, 1980 48 mins
A farmer believes a large agricultural company is sabotaging his trucks to shut down his business. Ponch goes on a health kick to impress women who own a health food store.
Episode 4
The Poachers
Sun, Oct 19, 1980 48 mins
While chasing poachers in the woods, Ponch and Jon encounter a man of Native American descent who wants to teach his grandson how to survive in the wilderness.
Episode 5
The Great 5K Star Race and Boulder Wrap Party: Part 1
Sun, Dec 7, 1980 60 mins
Ponch is looking for celebrities to participate in a fundraiser. Jon helps a boy who wants Jon to be his Big Brother.
Episode 6
The Great 5K Star Race and Boulder Wrap Party: Part 2
Sun, Dec 7, 1980 60 mins
Attempts are made to remove a large boulder which is putting Milton Berle's home in danger. The CHP fundraiser is a success with plenty of celebrities participating.
Episode 7
Satan's Angels
Sun, Dec 14, 1980 48 mins
Officer Bonnie Clark is kidnapped by members of a biker gang.
Episode 8
Wheels of Justice
Sun, Dec 21, 1980 60 mins
Ponch and Jon try to keep both a dangerous drunk driver and a habitual reckless driver off the streets. A gas main breaks at the hospital. Central takes in an entire maternity ward until the babies can be transported.
Episode 9
Crash Course
Sun, Jan 4, 1981 48 mins
Sonny Matson is a getaway driver who was recently released and back on the streets committing robberies. Ponch has difficulties with his bank account.
Episode 10
Forty Tons of Trouble
Sun, Jan 11, 1981 60 mins
The officers have gotten together to run a drag racer and discover their biggest competitor is stealing their parts. Thieves stealing construction vehicles threaten a small company's survival, the owner of which is an attractive woman that Jon and Ponch both take a shine to.
Episode 11
11-99: Officer Needs Help
Sun, Jan 18, 1981 60 mins
A new dispatcher is having trouble handling calls. The CHP try out a new device that sends out an emergency signal when an officer is down.
Episode 12
Home Fires Burning
Sun, Feb 1, 1981 48 mins
Arsonists are setting fires to RVs in an insurance scam.
Episode 13
Sharks
Sun, Feb 22, 1981 48 mins
Ponch and Jon stumble across a drug smuggling ring while scuba diving.
Episode 14
Ponch's Angels: Part 1
Sat, Feb 28, 1981 48 mins
Ponch gets a taste of his own medicine when he is given the assignment of training a new patrol officer, much like his earlier days when Jon had to train the difficult Poncherello. Ponch's problem is compounded by he fact the new officer is an attractive woman which makes his girlfriend jealous. A couple of purse snatchers work the crowds at the marina while some escaped felons are looking for buried treasure in an unusual place.
Episode 15
Ponch's Angels: Part 2
Sun, Mar 1, 1981 48 mins
Jon, his female trainee and the rest of the CHP officers must work together to shut down the marina operation and recapture the escaped prisoner.
Episode 16
Karate
Sun, Mar 8, 1981 60 mins
Ponch uses karate to try and convince kids at a youth center to stay away from gangs and drugs.
Episode 17
New Guy in Town
Sun, Mar 15, 1981 60 mins
There's a new rookie officer working with the CHP. A man is trying to avenge his brother's death by trying to kill Ponch and Jon.
Episode 18
The Hawk and the Hunter
Sun, Apr 5, 1981 60 mins
Barizca's father, a crop duster, is being threatened by someone who believes the chemicals he is using are dangerous. When Barizca also learns that his father is not physically able to fly, he decides to take some time off to fill in for him. Jon tries to find the man threatening Barizca. He also tries to get the Barizcas to talk as Barry will have to make a choice if he will stay with the CHP or quit to work for his father full-time.
Episode 19
Vigilante
Sun, May 3, 1981 60 mins
A criminal whom Getraer arrested is back and is terrorizing his family. At the same time a newly formed watch group tries to help by calling the cops when they come across a crime. But one of the members who lost a family member takes things too far.
Episode 20
Dead Man's Riddle
Sun, May 10, 1981 60 mins
After joining the Accident Investigation Team, a psychologist fears she may have accidentally caused an accident; the CHP team recreates a crash.
Episode 21
A Simple Operation
Sun, May 17, 1981 60 mins
When Getraer is injured he is brought to the hospital. While there and under sedation he sees someone do something to the man in the room with him. While trying to find out who the perpetrator is, the man tries to take Getraer out.
