The purpose of the Melbourne Police Department Ride-Along Program is to encourage community involvement in law enforcement and to educate the public by opening up the lines of communication within the community by allowing interested residents to ride as passenger observers with patrol officers. The Ride-Along Program promotes a better understanding of the challenges, risks and rewards of the police officer’s role in the community. 

A ride-along is available to Melbourne residents and business owners, students currently attending class in Melbourne and those employed within the City of Melbourne. Efforts will be made to accommodate all interested persons.

Requirements

• Be 18 years of age
• Resident, business owner, or student currently attending class in the City of Melbourne.
• Valid Photo ID or driver’s license.
• Participant must sign a waiver of liability.
• Participant must pass a level 1 background check.
• Participant has not been convicted of a felony or violent misdemeanor, has no criminal charges pending, has no lawsuit against the /city pending, and has not committed any violation involving moral turpitude as defined by the CJSTC.
• Participant must complete CJIS Level 2 Security Awareness Training
• Dress in business-like attire.
• Be under direct supervision of assigned officer.
• Not allowed to carry any type of firearm or weapon, regardless of any permit.
• May only carry one small bag or purse, which is subject to search by any officer.
• Participant may be subpoenaed to court to testify as a witness in regards to their observations during particular incidents.

How to Participate

If you are interested in a ride along, print the application and complete all forms.

Applications must be submitted directly to the front desk at:

Melbourne Police Department
650 N. Apollo Blvd.
Melbourne, Florida 32935

Questions?

Please e-mail: amy.hicks@mlbfl.org