Ride-Along Program
Program Details
The Ride-Along Program provides an opportunity for members of the community to experience the law enforcement function firsthand. Citizens can ride with an officer or supervisor during the course of their shift and witness the duties and responsibilities these men and women perform.
Eligibility
The Durango Police Department Ride-Along Program is offered to residents, students, and those employed within the city. Reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate interested persons. Any applicant may be disqualified without cause from participating in the program.
Some factors considered in qualifying or disqualifying an applicant include, but are not limited to, the following:
- 18 years or older
- A valid driver's license
- No prior criminal history
- Pending criminal action
- Pending lawsuit against the department
- Denial by any supervisor
Requesting a Ride-Along
Generally, ride-along requests (PDF) will be scheduled by the shift supervisor. The participant must complete and sign a ride-along waiver form. All ride-along applicants are subject to a criminal history check which includes a local records check, Colorado Crime Information Center, and National Crime Information Center check prior to approval. If approved, the shift supervisor will schedule a ride-along date based on availability.
Suitable Attire
Any person approved to ride along is required to be suitably dressed in a 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.