Ride-Along Program                         

Thank you for your interest in the Santa Barbara Police Department.  The Ride-Along Program is a project designed to improve interaction with the community and to give interested adults a first-hand opportunity to observe the police perform their everyday patrol duties.  As a result of this program, the community will have a better understanding of the challenges confronting police, and the police officers will be exposed to the concerns and views of the community. 

Anyone eighteen years of age or older may be permitted to participate in the Program at the discretion of the Police Department.  All individuals must sign and return the release agreement to the Community Relations Division at which time a criminal records check will be performed.  Before a ride may be scheduled you must first successfully pass the criminal records check.

Ride-Along participation is limited to once per year.

Ride-Along guests are expected to be suitably attired.  Men shall wear business attire consisting of a sweater, sport coat or sport shirt combination with slacks.  Dresses and skirts must be of suitable length when the wearer is seated.  T-shirts, Jeans, shorts, or sandals are unacceptable for any guest.  No cameras or tape recorders are permitted.  No exceptions to this standard will be permitted.

Although rare, situations may arise necessitating rescheduling, interruption or denial of a scheduled Ride-Along in the interest of safety.  This decision is made solely by the Department and is at its discretion. 

To ensure your safety and enjoyment during the Ride-Along, guests shall abide by the following rules:

• All Ride-Along guests shall stay in the car unless directed by the officer supervising the Ride-Along
• No Ride-Along guest shall be allowed to enter private residences or private property not open to the general public
• Cameras and recording devices are strictly prohibited.

Thank you again for your interest in the Santa Barbara Police Department.  If you have any questions, please contact O. Hoodes, Administrative Assistant, Patrol division via e-mail at ohoodes@sbpd.com or telephone at (805)897-2392. 

Click here to download a Ride-Along form

Return your completed form by mail: 215 E. Figueroa Street, SB, CA 93101 or Fax: 805-897-2434

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