Ride Along Program

PURPOSE & SCOPE
The Ride-Along Program provides an opportunity for citizens to experience the law enforcement function first hand. This policy provides the requirements, approval process for the Ride-Along Program.

ELIGIBILITY
Every attempt will be made to accommodate interested persons however any applicant may be disqualified without cause. The following factors may be considered in disqualifying an applicant and are not limited to:

• Being under 15 years of age
• Prior criminal history
• Pending criminal action
• Denial by any supervisor

PROCEDURE TO REQUEST A RIDE-ALONG
Generally, ride-along requests will be scheduled by the Uniform Division Lieutenant. The participant will complete a ride-along waiver form. If the participant is under 18 years of age, a parent/guardian must be present to complete the Ride-Along Form. If approved, a copy will be forwarded to the respective Shift Supervisor as soon as possible for his/her scheduling considerations. If the ride-along is denied after the request has been made, a representative of the Department will contact the applicant and advise him/her of the denial.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Once approved, civilian ride-alongs will be allowed to ride no more than once every six months. An exception would apply to the following: Cadets, Explorers, RSVP, Chaplains, Reserves, police applicants and all others with approval of the Uniform Division Lieutenant.

SUITABLE ATTIRE
Any person approved to ride along is required to be suitably dressed in collared shirt, blouse or jacket, slacks and shoes. Sandals, T-shirts, tank tops, shorts and ripped or torn blue jeans are not permitted. Hats and ball caps will not be worn in the police vehicle. The Shift Supervisor may refuse a ride along to anyone not properly dressed.

If you are interested in the Ride- Along Program you may contact the Pottawattamie County Sheriff's Office at (712) 890-2200.