The Civilian Ride-Along Program provides participants with firsthand knowledge of patrol functions and broader knowledge of basic police procedures. The program fosters mutual respect between the public and the Bradenton Police Department.

To be eligible to participate in the program, you meet one of the below criteria and must be at least 18 years of age:

• Police officers from other agencies

• Criminal justice and police-oriented students with a letter from their school

• Police department employees who would benefit the department from the gained experience (communications operators, etc.)

• Any paid department member during scheduled work hours

• Clergymen acting in the capacity of a chaplain or assisting the department

• Immediate family members of officers as defined in the City of Bradenton Rules and Regulations

• Persons who have made an application for police officer with the City

• Members of the Citizens’ Law Enforcement Academy

• Members of the Department’s Explorer Post

• Leadership Manatee members

• City of Bradenton Citizen Advisory Committee members

• Exceptions may be made to the above; however, a reason or purpose must exist other than “wanting to ride,” unless with the approval of the Chief of Police or designee

The department’s policy and guidelines governing our Ride-Along Program require you to complete an application so that your request can be processed. You must submit to fingerprinting, and an FCIC/NCIC arrests/warrant records check will be performed using the information provided. The appropriate Agency Administrator will advise you if your request meets our requirements. You are subject to a possible subpoena to court (if deemed necessary).

Please note, in accordance with the FDLE/FBI security policy, your request will be denied for any of the following:

• Any Felony conviction, pending felony charges, or pending felony court proceedings.

• Any misdemeanor conviction within the last five years.

• If you have multiple misdemeanor convictions occurring more than five years ago.

• If you have a misdemeanor charge or arrest pending.

Important information for participants:

• You may not carry weapons of any kind (firearm, knife, etc.) regardless of applicable permits. Exceptions will be considered for Florida state-certified law enforcement officers who are active, sworn employees with another state law enforcement agency.

• You must maintain a clean and professional appearance. Unprofessional attire, open-toed shoes, outside agency uniforms, and offensive material are prohibited.

• You are not to become involved in any investigation in any way and will take all directions given by the assigned officer.

• Participants have no police authority while on the ride-along.

• Participants reflect on the agency during a ride-along. Inappropriate behavior will result in the termination of the ride-along.