The Dunwoody Police Department is pleased to offer a Ride-Along program for citizens.  A Ride-Along program gives citizens a unique opportunity to learn about the daily challenges and risks that officers face while protecting the community.  Citizens also get an “inside” view of how police officers serve the citizens of Dunwoody.  In addition, citizens have an opportunity to interact with a uniformed police officer to ask questions, discuss issues, and voice concerns.

“At times, it is very difficult to explain to people the exact duties of a police officer and the complex nature of the job,” says Dunwoody Police Chief Billy Grogan.  “However, giving citizens the opportunity to ride along with an officer is very eye-opening.”  The Dunwoody Police Department is committed to establishing and maintaining close ties with citizens and promoting a realistic understanding of how community needs are being addressed by the department.  A ride-along program is a great way to do this.

“I still think it is nothing short of amazing that the Department was able to get up and running so quickly, and I have to believe that our community was wise to try to attract experienced officers who could have good judgment about enforcement of the law.” 

~Fred Brandt

“A ride-along is what gives you the best perspective of a Police Officer's duties."
~Jeremy Markel

“I had a great time learning about the new department and meeting some of your officers.  The officers I came in contact with were extremely professional and treated me as one of their own.”
~Andy Benfield

Program Eligibility

Anyone interested in participating in the Dunwoody Police Department’s Ride-Along program must complete a Ride Along Application Packet and return, or mail it, to the Police Department.  In addition, applicants must abide by the following rules:  

1. Applicant must be at least 18 years of age unless they are an approved member of the Dunwoody Police Department Explorers Program.
2. Applicant must have no felony or narcotics convictions and must be free of any misdemeanor convictions which are considered unacceptable by the Chief of Police.
3. The applicant must complete a criminal history authorization form.
4. The applicant must complete this ride-along request form.
5. The applicant must complete a Waiver of Liability form.
6. No participant will act as a police agent in any manner.
7. While participating in the Ride-Along, no participant is allowed entry into a residence or any other location where a reasonable expectation of privacy exists.
8. No weapons such as firearms, batons, O.C. Spray, etc. will be carried by a Ride-Along participant - including representatives from other law enforcement agencies.