Police department opens training center

DOWNEY – The Downey Police Department last week officially opened its new use-of-force training center, where police officers can test and practice techniques, decision-making and judgment skills with the help of state-of-the-art technology. The center will offer ongoing training for both non-lethal and lethal force options, officials said. Police officers previously had to travel outside the city for training.

The training center features an interactive, video-based use of force simulator with variable lighting and video monitoring. There is also protective padding and room for equipment storage.

No taxpayer funds were used to construct the training facility. The $200,000 facility was paid for through asset forfeiture funds.

“The addition of this new force training room is a great asset to our police department and will serve as yet another tool to enhance the training of our officers,” said Mayor Fernando Vasquez, who participated in a demonstration of the simulator last week.

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Published: April 24, 2014 - Volume 13 - Issue 02