City Officials Encourage Annual Ride Alongs With Police Before Winter

The Boulder Police Oversight Panel meeting on July 19, 2025, highlighted the importance of ride-along programs for community engagement and police transparency. Panel members discussed the ordinance requiring officers to participate in ride-alongs at least once a year, emphasizing the benefits of doing so during warmer months.

One panel member noted that many officers would soon be available for ride-alongs as they complete their training, making the upcoming weeks an ideal time for community members to participate. The member encouraged those who have not engaged in a ride-along in the past six months to reach out to the police department, specifically mentioning the officer Bethany as a contact.

The ride-along experience typically lasts four hours and begins with a briefing, which, while not mandatory, was described as highly beneficial. Briefings provide officers with updates on previous incidents, missing persons, and stolen vehicles, fostering a better understanding of daily police operations for participants. The panel member urged attendees to take the opportunity to ask officers about their equipment during the ride-along, further enhancing the learning experience.

Overall, the discussion underscored the value of ride-alongs in building community trust and understanding of police work, particularly as the department prepares for an influx of new officers. The panel's focus on this initiative reflects a commitment to fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and the community.