Police Ride-Along Program

The Rockville City Police Department’s Ride-Along Program gives community members an opportunity to learn about daily police operations and interact with officers. It aims to build community partnerships and foster a better understanding of the challenges, hazards, and rewards of policing in Rockville.

How to Apply

To apply, print a completed application form and return it at least 48 hours in advance to Lt. Taglienti at the Rockville City Police Station or by mail to:

Rockville City Police Department
Patrol Operations Division c/o Lt. Taglienti
2 W. Montgomery Ave.
Rockville, MD 20850

Eligibility

Participants must be 18 or older. Exceptions may be made for minors if a parent or legal guardian of a minor submits a written request.

Applicants may not participate more than once every six months.

Eligible participants include:

• City of Rockville residents.
• Visiting law enforcement personnel.
• City of Rockville employees or their adult relatives.
• Professionals or students in the field of criminal justice or social services.
• News media or local government officials.
• Adult participants in the Rockville City Police Civilian Academy.
• Members of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service.

Rules and Guidelines

Before participating, the applicant, or a parent or guardian in the case of a minor, must sign a waiver releasing the Rockville City Police Department and the City of Rockville from liability.

Participants are encouraged to ask questions about police work and may witness an event that requires court testimony.

Participants must:

• Submit to a records check through the National Crime Information Center (NCIC).
• Arrange their own transportation to and from the police station.
• Wear the issued identification badge during the ride-along.
• Wear neat, clean clothing. Shorts, sweat suits, jogging suits, tank tops, halter tops, torn or soiled clothing, and attire with offensive language or symbols are not allowed.
• Use seat belts and safety equipment in the police vehicle per department policies.
• Follow all officer instructions. Some police calls are inherently dangerous, and officers may drop off participants at a safe location before responding. In such cases, participants must follow the officer’s instructions and wait for a police vehicle to pick them up.

Prohibited actions:

• Photographing, videotaping, or recording any portion of the ride-along.
• Entering a private home without explicit permission from both the officer and the homeowner.
• Participating in a vehicular pursuit.
• Interfering with an officer’s handling of a situation. Questions may be asked after leaving the scene.