Watson 1

Jesse Watson
Mrs. DeBock
English IV
14 April 2016
Police Ride Alongs
To truly understand the job and tasks police must undergo on an everyday basis, ones
best bet would be a ride along. An individual does not have to pursue a career in law
enforcement to gain this experience. While participating in a police ride along, an individual will
experience the daily routine of a police officer including dispatch calls, dealing with criminals,
and possible arrests.
While on a police ride along, do not expect it to be like the show Cops. During this ride,
one may experience the possibility of civilian arrests and pullovers. However, the ready
dispatchers are already alerted that this certain policeman and cop car are indeed on a ride along.
Therefore, they will not dispatch any calls to that policeman that may put the individual riding
along in harms way (Criminal Justice Schools).
When it comes to dealing with criminals while on a ride along, an individual should not
expect anything too serious or dangerous. However, one may experience a criminal with a
minimal offense such as loitering. It is strongly advised to gather questions to ask to officer
before taking part in a ride along (Janney).
While an individual partakes in a ride along, it is very important to practically interview
the officer on specific duties, benefits, and most memorable moments of being a police officer.
Generate as many questions before-hand (Janney).
Works Cited

Watson 2

Criminal Justice Schools. "Law Enforcement Job Shadowing and Internships." Law
Enforcement Job Shadowing and Internships. Education and Career Guide, 2013. Web.
17 Mar. 2016.
Parker, Janney. "Law Enforcement Job Shadowing and Internships."Law Enforcement Job
Shadowing and Internships. Chron Incorporated, 2013. Web. 17 Mar. 2016.