2 answers
Landon
Student
Roseau, Minnesota
3
Questions
Updated
302 views
How do I get a "ride along" with my local police department?
I am very interested in getting into the law enforcement career field. What would be the best way to coordinate and do a "ride along" with my local police department? I would like to get a little experience before I commit to that being my career.
Login to comment
2 answers
Kimberly Krebs
Corporate Security Manager
91
Answers
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
That's a great question! When I first thought about becoming a police officer, I did a ride-along with my local department, and it was a life-changing experience. I was instantly hooked! I suggest you visit your nearest department and let them know you're interested. If they can help, they'll walk you through the process. If not, they'll point you to nearby departments that can. Good luck!
Check in with your local police department. I would go in-person rather than call.
Kimberly recommends the following next steps:
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1862
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Landon,
You have a couple of options. One is with the city PD, the other is with the Sheriff's Dept.
Except, if you are under 18, you will likely need parental consent and they might even have to come with you.
I think the first step would be to talk to the police department. Looking at their website, they look pretty transparent. They have links for forms. But, no form for a ride-along. But, honestly, just ask. Maybe start with the office mgr, listed on the website. Or, start finding a way to bump into officers, such as when they step in for a cup of coffee somewhere. This might be better, as they will come to know you and be able to gauge your level of maturity.
If neither of these options pan out, look at other cities, game wardens/park rangers, school police, etc.
From an officer's perspective, a problem with ride-alongs is the officer has to know you will do what you are told, without question. They are responsible for your safety, so, if something goes down, having to be concerned for you could fatally distract them from dealing with the situation. So, please, understand that point. It's a very serious matter! Project maturity!
You have a couple of options. One is with the city PD, the other is with the Sheriff's Dept.
Except, if you are under 18, you will likely need parental consent and they might even have to come with you.
I think the first step would be to talk to the police department. Looking at their website, they look pretty transparent. They have links for forms. But, no form for a ride-along. But, honestly, just ask. Maybe start with the office mgr, listed on the website. Or, start finding a way to bump into officers, such as when they step in for a cup of coffee somewhere. This might be better, as they will come to know you and be able to gauge your level of maturity.
If neither of these options pan out, look at other cities, game wardens/park rangers, school police, etc.
From an officer's perspective, a problem with ride-alongs is the officer has to know you will do what you are told, without question. They are responsible for your safety, so, if something goes down, having to be concerned for you could fatally distract them from dealing with the situation. So, please, understand that point. It's a very serious matter! Project maturity!