Get TITLE Citizen RideAlong Program - Web Rockfordil

Eligibility Requirements: All ride-alongs must be 18 years of age or older, unless a written petition for exception is approved by the Chief of Police or his designee.

Participant guidelines: Must be a minimum of 14 years-of-age. Individual programs may require an older age of the participants. Participation in the ride-along program is voluntary and the length of the individual's program depends upon the type of activity to be engaged in.

The commanding officers of other units who receive requests for a ride-along in district law enforcement and/or requests for a ride-along in units other than district law enforcement, will refer those requests to the commanding officer, Special Activities Section.

A ride along gives the candidate a first-hand look at what happens on an hour-by-hour basis as a police officer. You will be invited to observe what it's like to be a police officer – joining one or more officers during one of their daily shifts.

Ride-alongs are offered by many police departments around the world. There is a minimum age to participate in a ride-along. Depending on the department, it is often somewhere between the ages of 12 and 18. When participation of those under 18 is permitted, consent from a parent or legal guardian is required.

Riders should be advised that law enforcement audio and video recording devices may be active during the ride-along. All photography/audio/video recording is prohibited during the ride-along without consent from the Chief of Police.

The Mounted Patrol Unit currently houses 32 horses (geldings) which are acquired by the Chicago Police Department through purchases and donations. To qualify a horse for duty, they are chosen for uniformity – alike in appearance, size and temperament.