Police Ride Along Program DETAILS

In an effort to foster a positive relationship with the community and to help citizens better understand what our officers do on a daily basis, the Allentown Police Department has a ride along program that puts citizens in police cars out on patrol with officers. Citizens can get a first-hand look at the challenges officers face each day and hopefully come away with a better understanding of the services we provide.  ​As a professional law enforcement organization, we constantly strive to improve the level of service to our community.  To that end, it is necessary to establish and maintain certain rules that govern the conduct and activities of citizens who ride with our officers to ensure the integrity of our Department is protected. 

Ride along participants only act as observers. They do not perform any law enforcement work that the officer would normally do. They do not wear a uniform or badge, operate a patrol car, handle department equipment or weapons or complete any official paperwork. To apply for a ride along, print-out and complete the following three forms: Ride Along Instructions Ride Along Application Ride Along Release of Claims Waiver

Once complete, submit all paperwork with VALID GOVERNMENT ISSUED PHOTO ID to Patrol Supervisor at 425 W. Hamilton Street, Allentown, PA, 18101.  A local and NCIC background check will be completed on all applicants.

Questions can be directed to Sally Yandrasits in our Patrol Captain’s Office, 610-437-7713.
 

Program Eligibility

• No more than 1 participant may ride along during the same time period.
• Participants will complete and submit their Application and Waiver of Liability at least 24 hours in advance, allowing for processing.  All Ride Alongs will then be scheduled at the convenience of the Department.
• Applicants may have never been convicted of a felony or any criminal offense involving moral turpitude.  This background check is voluntary.  If you refuse the criminal background check, you will not be eligible for the Ride Along program.
• Upon final review, the Patrol Supervisor will contact the participant to notify them of their eligibility status.

Dress Code

• Clean, casual clothing in good condition is acceptable;
• Shorts or sleeveless shirts are not allowed;
• Open-toed shoes are not allowed.

• OBSERVERS WILL:
  
  -Conduct themselves in a civil and courteous manner at all times;
  -Not use profane or abusive language or behave in any manner that  would provoke or escalate tension;
  -Not use alcoholic beverages immediately prior to or during the watch  that they are to ride;
  -At all times obey the directives of the officer with whom they are  riding;
  -Remain in the police vehicle during traffic stops;
  -Not enter any building, home, or other area unless and until instructed  to do so by an officer;
  -Not interfere with officers while in the performance of their duties;
  -Not photograph or record by any means, any activity, person or area  without permission of the officer;
  -Not become involved in the arrest or physical control of any person;
  -Not carry weapons while participating in the ride along program.