INDIANAPOLIS — For the first time since the pandemic started, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is inviting citizens into their patrol cars for a ride along.
The program was suspended due to COVID, but sign ups are now available.
IMPD Deputy Chief Josh Barker says a ride along is an opportunity for a community member or someone interested in a law enforcement career to get an up front experience about what the job is.
"I think people have to balance what they read in the headlines and the conversations with their friends about what they think law enforcement entails whereas a police ride along gives them an opportunity to spend a full 8.5 shift in a police car," Barker said.
Participants must be at least 18, sign a ride-along and waiver of liability and wear business casual attire on the ride along.
"[Participants will] have an opportunity to ask questions, see the officer interact in a countless variety of situations, make decisions, engage with the community, engage with their fellow officers and really just have a limitless opportunity to have a conversation about what policing in America is like," Barker said.
IMPD says they were frustrated when the opportunity had to shut down and are asking the public to take them up on this opportunity.
"This is an ability for our police department to interface one on one with someone who has experienced our policing services or observed our policing services," Barker said. "Even if you are uncertain about how you feel about the police department ... this too is a great opportunity for you."
-
Carmel first responders reflect on 9/11 23 years after the tragedy
On Wednesday morning, Carmel first responders and community members gathered at Veterans Memorial Plaza at 8:46 a.m.Indianapolis Animal Care Services to become independent agency
IACS executive director Kelly Diamond said there is no ill will towards its current supervisors, but acknowledged a split could improve the way the animal shelter operates.Indianapolis Zoo mourns death of 36-year-old southern white rhino
A 36-year-old southern white rhinoceros, who has called the Indianapolis Zoo home for the past 17-years, has died.IPS expanding program aimed at helping students enter the workforce
The program provides support through career counseling, college specialists and other avenues to make sure every student has a future plan.