Ride-Along Program

What is the Ride-Along Program?

The Ride-Along Program provides an opportunity for someone to ride along with a patrol officer and observe law enforcement activities. The officer may acquaint the citizen rider with a range of police responsibilities and problems. This may include hazardous situations, but the officer will discontinue the ride-along if the safety of the rider is at risk. 

Who Can Participate in the Ride-Along Program?

Persons eighteen (18) years and older wishing to participate in the program will need to initiate a request through the Internal Affairs Unit. Persons studying criminal justice, or engaged in criminal justice research, city officials, community watch participants, or visiting law enforcement officials will be given priority. A general release form must be completed and signed by the ride-along participant before being allowed to ride. A brief background investigation of each rider will be made by the Internal Affairs Unit to determine if the citizen is of suitable character to ride-along.

Are There Any Restrictions?

• Riders are strictly prohibited from riding with officers that are family or a friend.
• Riders will not enforce laws or assist in enforcing laws.
• Riders are not permitted to carry any type of weapon even those that they are lawfully permitted to carry concealed or otherwise. 
• Riders will dress in a "business casual" manner. No jeans, t-shirts, tennis shoes, or shorts will be permitted. 
• Riders are limited to one ride-along every 6 months.

Application

Complete the application and submit in person, fax, or email. See the form for more information.

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