By Drew Van Voorhis, The Epoch Times
Full Article: https://www.theepochtimes.com/revamped-sheriff-training-involves-more-real-world-dynamics_3756275.html
Date: March 30, 2021
“The Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) has revamped its qualifications course as it seeks to help deputies gain more real-world experience.
“We wanted our training to be more current and contemporary by putting in place variables that people may come in contact with while they’re dealing with the public,” said Sheriff Don Barnes.
“So all these variables are getting out of a car, moving, getting cover, and shooting when necessary, not because it’s part of them having a score.”
The department shared its latest tactics with reporters during a March 30 media day at the Sandra Hutchens Regional Law Enforcement Training Center.
Barnes demonstrated a drill for reporters and spoke with The Epoch Times about how the revamped course will help officers in real-life situations.
Training is only as good as the scenarios deputies are put in during training, Barnes said, noting that officers need to be able to rapidly evaluate the circumstances they’re in. They must also consider their available options—including de-escalation and other verbal commands—and try to bring positive outcomes.
…During training, officers are taught de-escalation strategies, as well as to fire weapons only as a last resort and only in a professional manner.
The new range setup is not only for the OCSD. Other agencies, such as the Irvine Police Department, are able to access the range for qualifications testing as well.”
