The Elk Grove Police Department's ride-along program provides members of the community with the opportunity to see firsthand how their police department handles calls for service. In order to manage the number of ride-along requests and to provide for the safety of the participants, the following rules have been established.
Who can ride along?
Ride-alongs are offered to:
- Recruitment for law enforcement positions
- Residents of Elk Grove
- Other law enforcement officers
- Students
- City of Elk Grove employees
- Every attempt will be made to accommodate interested persons; however any applicant may be disqualified without cause
How do I obtain authorization?
The Chief of Police or the Watch Commander must approve all ride-alongs.
Questions about our Ride-Along program can be directed to our Ride Along Coordinator via email at egpd-rides@elkgrovepd.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to sign something?
Yes. You are required to sign an Accident Waiver that frees our insurance carrier and the Department from liability in the unlikely even that you are injured while on a ride-along. If you are under 18, your parents also sign the waiver.
Does that mean I could get hurt?
Police work by its very nature is dangerous. The officer you ride with will take all reasonable precautions to minimize your exposure to dangerous events or conditions.
When can I ride along?
Ride-alongs are permitted on day and evening patrol shifts between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 11:30 p.m. Generally, ride-alongs last eight (8) hours.
What should I wear?
You may dress semi-casual but your clothes should be clean and neat. Remember to dress for the weather, officers typically drive with their windows rolled down (to hear better) regardless of temperature.
Can I bring a camera?
Due to constitutional rights of privacy, cameras and tape recorders are NOT allowed to be carried on ride-alongs.
Are there things I should not do?
Yes. Do not interfere with officers while they are performing their duties. Afterwards, the officer will be happy to answer your questions about how the incident was handled.