NCJ Number
206787
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 52 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2004 Pages: 52-55
Date Published
June 2004
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article examined the ability to do more police training using less money.
Abstract
In today’s economy many agencies’ budgets are tighter than ever before. Often the first area to experience budget cuts is training. However, in today’s violent world the demand for training officers has never been greater. The Palatine, IL, Police Department conducts 4 days of in-service training with 106 sworn members each year. Topics include: rapid deployment, high-risk traffic stops, officer rescue tactics, tactical pistol drills, building searches and high warrant service. Officers also receive refresher training on baton skills, oleoresin capsicum (OC) and pressure point control tactics (PPCT). One of the difficulties in a larger department is the variety of tactics officers have received in training from different instructors at different academies and other training seminars. Unless the department provides its own training, there is no standardization among the officers on how to perform tactics in high-risk situations. Having several individuals develop the training module increases the chances of success in creating a method that has been well researched and thought through for that particular agency. It is important that all officers learn new skills since this keeps them engaged in the training process. It is possible for police departments to do more with less money by using officers from within the department to provide effective and cost efficient training in critical skills through in-service training.