Civilian ride-alongs

[storm]

Wondering which Bay area agencies, if any, have civilian ride-along programs of any sort. I've done a bunch way back when though largely due to personally knowing officers and that my then roommate was a PD dispatcher. I was also able to at one time tag along when I worked with parolees and in-custody clients if I had a head's up about sweeps. Seems these days the liability outweighs what I felt was a tremendous learning experience that only deepened my respect for patrol officers. Thank you for all you do :thumbup

 

[bojangle]

I think many still do them. One would have to sign a waiver form and generally either be a resident of the city they want to ride with, an applicant for an open position with the department, or know an officer personally who is willing to take you out, with department approval.

One would also have to be of general good character, as in not someone on parole or probation, not a wanted person, and not a person frequently dealt with by police, etc.

 

[orbframe]

Our agency does them, the key things are you have to pass a quick records check and dress respectably.

 

[NorCalAthlete]

At a minimum I know San Jose PD, San Mateo PD, Fremont PD all do ride-alongs. I want to say San Mateo County Sheriff might also accommodate.

Edit - I don’t know the specifics around them (ie, if you have to be a current applicant or something) I just know they’ve done them in the past.

Something to note - if you're looking for excitement, you probably won't find it. Your car will be dispatched to welfare checks, neighborhood checks, and maybe do a few low risk traffic stops. If anything does go down, the officer is wearing body armor - you will not be. If there is a life-threatening situation, the officer needs to be sure you won't be a liability. You will likely not be involved in any car chases beyond the first few seconds to where they can get another chase car involved. You will not be serving high risk warrants or anything.

Most of the time will be spent talking with the officer and getting to know them, the neighborhood, the city, the trouble spots and troublemakers, etc. So if you're looking to apply, it'll be a fantastic experience. If you're looking to familiarize yourself with any of the above, it'll be great. But if you're just looking for some risky fun, it's not the way to go.

Posting this more as a general info for anyone reading the thread. YMMV by agency, personal connection, the officer who chooses to take you out, etc.

 

[Shaggy]

My agency only does ride alongs for applicants. I’d assume some other agencies operate the same.