What Is A Ride Along
A ride along is a unique opportunity offered by many law enforcement agencies where civilians, students, journalists, or aspiring officers accompany police officers during their patrol shifts. This experience allows participants to observe firsthand the daily responsibilities, challenges, and decisions that law enforcement professionals face on the job. Whether it’s part of a criminal justice course, a public outreach initiative, or a recruitment program, a police ride along can provide a deeper understanding of how policing works and what community safety entails in real-world scenarios.
Understanding the Concept of a Ride Along
The term ‘ride along’ refers to the practice of a civilian being permitted to accompany a police officer while the officer performs their official duties. This is often done in a marked patrol car and during regular working hours. The civilian does not carry a weapon or have any police authority; they are simply there to observe and learn.
Purpose of a Police Ride Along
Ride along programs serve multiple purposes depending on the participants. These include:
- Educational Experience: College students studying criminal justice often participate in ride alongs to gain practical insights.
- Career Exploration: Individuals considering a career in law enforcement use ride alongs to determine if the profession suits them.
- Public Engagement: Citizens can gain transparency into police work and develop trust with local departments.
- Media Coverage: Journalists and documentary filmmakers may conduct ride alongs to cover specific incidents or trends in crime prevention.
Who Can Participate in a Ride Along?
Each police department sets its own eligibility requirements for ride along participants. While policies vary, most agencies allow:
- Adults aged 18 and over
- Younger participants (usually 16-17) with parental consent
- Applicants with no serious criminal background
- Individuals who submit a valid government-issued ID
Departments may perform background checks to ensure the safety of their officers and the community. Some agencies also limit how often someone can participate in ride alongs within a year.
Application and Approval Process
To participate in a ride along, individuals typically need to complete an application form provided by the police department. The application may ask for personal details, reason for the request, emergency contact information, and a signed waiver acknowledging the inherent risks. Approval is subject to review by department staff, and applicants will be notified if selected.
What to Expect During a Ride Along
Ride alongs usually last for a few hours or for the duration of one shift (which may be 8 to 12 hours). Participants are assigned to a patrol officer and remain with that officer throughout the shift. Here’s what generally occurs:
Briefing
Before the ride begins, the officer may provide a briefing about the day’s priorities, safety guidelines, and what the participant should or shouldn’t do. Participants are advised to follow the officer’s instructions closely.
Observation of Routine Duties
During the ride, participants can observe officers performing routine tasks such as:
- Responding to emergency and non-emergency calls
- Conducting traffic stops
- Patrolling neighborhoods
- Engaging with members of the community
- Writing reports or logging incidents
Exposure to Real-Life Situations
Although not guaranteed, ride alongs can include observing high-stress situations like arrests, disputes, or accidents. Civilians are generally instructed to remain in the vehicle during dangerous interactions and to avoid interfering with any investigations or police actions.
Guidelines and Restrictions
To ensure safety and professionalism, there are clear rules for participants. Common restrictions include:
- No weapons or self-defense tools are allowed
- Participants must wear appropriate clothing (often business casual)
- No use of cameras or recordings unless pre-approved
- Participants must not disclose sensitive information about calls or individuals they encounter
- Participants may not interfere with law enforcement duties in any way
Benefits of Participating in a Ride Along
Taking part in a police ride along offers several advantages:
- Educational Insight: Participants learn how officers apply the law, de-escalate situations, and interact with diverse community members.
- Improved Community Relations: Civilians develop empathy for police work and better understand the challenges officers face.
- Career Exploration: Prospective police recruits gain a realistic view of day-to-day responsibilities.
- Transparency: Ride alongs promote openness between law enforcement agencies and the public.
Potential Drawbacks or Risks
While ride alongs are generally safe and supervised, they can involve certain risks and discomforts:
- Witnessing traumatic or stressful incidents
- Long periods of inactivity followed by intense situations
- Exposure to unfavorable weather or night shifts
- Emotional stress due to confronting criminal behavior or victims’ distress
It is important for participants to be mentally prepared and understand that police work can be unpredictable and emotionally demanding.
Ride Along Programs Across the U.S.
Most police departments across the United States offer ride along opportunities. These include city police departments, county sheriff’s offices, and even specialized law enforcement agencies like campus or transit police. Departments in larger cities may have more formalized and scheduled ride along programs, whereas smaller towns may provide ride alongs on a more limited basis.
Notable Agencies with Ride Along Programs
- Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD)
- New York Police Department (NYPD)
- Chicago Police Department
- Houston Police Department
- Miami-Dade Police Department
Each agency may offer different experiences depending on the area’s crime rate, community engagement goals, and policing strategies.
Ride alongs are a valuable bridge between police departments and the communities they serve. By offering civilians the opportunity to witness the work of law enforcement firsthand, ride alongs encourage transparency, understanding, and mutual respect. Whether for education, exploration, or civic engagement, participating in a ride along can be an eye-opening and memorable experience that sheds light on the real-world functioning of public safety systems.