RIDE ALONG GUIDELINES

This program allows interested Cherokee County residents to observe some of the daily activities of the Sheriff's Office. Persons approved to participate in the program will be allowed to ride with a Deputy during their patrol shift. 
The following guidelines have been established to make the program safe and beneficial to all. Please read - you will be asked to sign a copy of these guidelines. 
Note:
a.    You must be at least 18 years of age to participate and have no criminal record.
b.    You must reside in Cherokee County. (This requirement may be waived.)
c.    You may only participate in two (2) Ride-A-Longs per calendar year. 
Observers shall report to the Law Enforcement Center fifteen (15) minutes prior to roll call.
Observers shall be neat and clean in appearance and attire. Decisions regarding questionable attire or appearance shall be made by the shift supervisor. Observers not appropriately attired will not be allowed to ride.
Observers have no law enforcement authority and are under the direct authority of the deputy to whom they are assigned.
Observers shall not interfere with any law enforcement officer performing his/her duty.
Observers shall not:Become involved in any investigation,
Handle evidence,
Discuss any case with victim(s), witnesses or suspect(s), or
Handle any equipment without authorization from the deputy.
Observers shall abide by their host deputy's decision as to whether or not they will be allowed to exit the vehicle and observe particular calls for service.
Observers are allowed to take notes, but shall not bring nor use tape recorders, cameras, or video equipment (credentialed media representatives may be exempt from this rule).
Observers may be called to court as a witness as a result of participating in the program.
Observers, host deputies, and/or a supervisor may terminate the ride-along at any time it is deemed necessary to benefit the Observer and/or the Sheriff's Office.
Observers, once approved, are permitted to ride one time within any two week period unless otherwise approved by the Uniform Captain or higher authority. This form is valid for a 30 day period.
Observers are permitted to ride from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM unless otherwise authorized by the Sheriff. 
Observers shall be unarmed unless otherwise authorized by the Sheriff.
Observers shall submit this completed form at least three (3) days prior to the date which he/she wishes to ride. NOTE: This does not apply to law enforcement officer initiated requests.